Lloris backs Pogba to rediscover his form

Paul Pogba is still "one of the best players in the world" despite his "complicated" situation at Manchester United, according to France captain Hugo Lloris.

Pogba has struggled for both form and fitness this season and has been left out of the starting XI in United's last three games in all competitions.

Despite his domestic struggles, Pogba was included in the 25-man France squad for the upcoming friendlies against Colombia and Russia and Lloris believes the international break could help the midfielder recapture his best form.

"Paul stays a strong player in our team, he is one of our leaders," said Lloris. "This season is a little bit complicated but he was injured so that could explain why he was not consistent all the time.

"But he already proved with Manchester or France that he is one of the best players in the world if he is at 100 per cent. Now he is more mature.

"He knows his place, his responsibilities. I have no doubt that he will be ready for this huge competition and show his best side."

France boss Didier Deschamps expects Pogba to return to his best in time for the upcoming World Cup in Russia.

"Everyone is talking about Paul now. He has a complicated situation at Manchester. But he did not lose his football and what he knows how to do," said Deschamps.

"I have talked with him. I deal with him the same way that I deal with other players. Maybe not the same as all the players but he is not outcast.

"Sometimes you need to encourage them sometimes even to comfort them, let them know I trust them.

"Sometimes you need to tell the truth, being more aggressive. That's management. I need to put the players in the best possible conditions.

"Sometimes they come not in good physical or psychological conditions but the truth in November is not the same in March and will be different in May/June when we prepare for the World Cup."

Credit: Skysports.com