Pogba takes aim at critics and insists he loves the game

A defiant Paul Pogba believes he is proving at this World Cup that he is far more of a team player than those who accuse him of self-interest often claim – and insisted no one could question his love for football.

The Manchester United midfielder has faced strong criticism over the past two seasons for lacking discipline and for not appearing serious enough about the game.

But Pogba has enjoyed an impressive World Cup for France and excelled against Belgium in Tuesday’s 1-0 win, a performance that earned him high praise from his coach, Didier Deschamps, and compatriot Arsène Wenger, the former Arsenal manager.

“The critics can criticise me, but the one thing they cannot criticise is the love of football I have. I will keep fighting for my love,” Pogba, 25, said in response to accusations of indiscipline on the pitch.

“We are in the final of a World Cup. It’s a dream for everybody, but you have to realise a dream.

“I live for football. I play for football. I get criticised again and again – but today, everything is fine.”

Deschamps said Pogba had been “everywhere” against Belgium and that he had “grown in the team”.

Wenger echoed those sentiments. He said: “He kept things simple and was impressive.”