Dider Deschamps concedes Paul Pogba is "not at his best" as he looks to rediscover top form following his injury lay off.
The Manchester United midfielder has been out for six weeks and only returned in his side's Europa League win over AC Milan.
Pogba had been performing well prior to his time on the sidelines as his club eyed the Premier League summit.
His departure coincided with their drop off in form but the midfielder will need some time before he is firing on all cylinders again according to the France boss.
"He is not at his best, obviously," Deschamps confessed.
"On his entry against Ukraine, it also coincided with a period where the French team was not playing well.
"These 30 minutes are good for him. Like any player who returns from an injury, it will take time.
"The situation in November, he came with little playing time, it did not prevent him from making a great game against Portugal.
"He needs game time to perfect his physical condition."
Pogba's future continues to be a source of speculation after his agent Mino Raiola discussed an exit earlier this season.
Real Madrid and Juventus have been touted as potential destinations, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has now talked up a new deal for the 28-year-old.
"Of course, we've got discussions and talks," he said.
"When you see Paul playing like he did against Milan, when you see him come back training, it shows how much he cares for us and how much he enjoys playing and how much we can benefit from having him here."
