Search icon

Football

25th Aug 2018

Wayne Rooney says Paul Pogba must take responsibility for his performances

Rooney was defensive of José Mourinho, suggesting that Pogba must step up and take responsibility for his subpar performances

Reuben Pinder

Pogba himself admitted that his attitude wasn’t right against against Brighton

Manchester United are facing a mini-crisis having just two games this season. José Mourinho is at odds with the executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward over transfers, the players seem disillusioned with Mourinho, and the fans are angry at lacklustre performances.

United have relied heavily on Paul Pogba already this season, who will have to be at the top of his game to carry them through this difficult spell. But despite scoring a consolation penalty in the 3-2 loss to Brighton, Pogba admitted he and his teammates did not go into that match with the right attitude.

Former United captain Wayne Rooney has spoken to CNN about his former team’s current situation and believes that only Pogba can be held responsible for his (lack of) form.

“He is a fantastic player but he has to do it for himself,” United’s all-time record goalscorer and current D.C. United forward told CNN World Sport.

“If they’re going to win the title, he’ll be the main player in terms of them doing that.

“You hear a lot of people saying Jose Mourinho needs to get the best out of him but he needs to do it for himself and prove he’s at that level to help Man United.”

Mourinho has taken a lot of stick for not improving the players in the United squad, but demanding new players every summer. Rooney, though, believes the players need to step up.

This internal battle can only last so long and will only end one way.