Manchester United midfielder has stated his ambition to impress for France during the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia. The Frenchman has been one of Didier Deschamps’ most influential players over the past 24 months and the 25-year-old is now keen to emerge as a leader in the upcoming global tournament.

Speaking on Canal +, he said: “I hope now, at the World Cup. I’m going to take the reins of the France team, try to be the boss on and off the pitch. I hear it (criticism) a lot. I hope to give my answer on the pitch and show everyone. I was the best young player (in 2014).  I hope I’ll be the best player overall at the World Cup. That would be great.”

Pogba has received plenty of criticism since sealing his £89m switch from Juventus two years ago. The Frenchman was initially expected to set the stage alight after making a move for a then-world record fee but he has primarily operated in a central midfield role under Jose Mourinho, where he has had a reduced impact on the attack front.

Nevertheless, the manager has continued to support him with every bad outing he has had and the Frenchman will now be hoping to find a consistency to his game which has been lacking since his Old Trafford move. With France, Pogba has a good record of nine goals and a further seven assists in 51 appearances and the midfielder will be desperate to lay his mark on the global stage this summer.

Deschamps’ side failed to overcome Portugal during their European final defeat back in 2016 and they will be aiming for better luck this time around, though they have to contend with some of the world’s elite for the coveted prize. Brazil and Spain are among the favourites for the World Cup alongside holders Germany but France could have their own say in the tournament.