Didier Deschamps refused to be drawn on Paul Pogba 's apparent difference in form for France with Manchester United.
Having been named man of the match in France's European Championship opener against Germany, Pogba underwhelmed in France's 1-1 draw with Hungary and Saturday and was replaced by Corentin Tolisso in the 76th minute. Temperatures hit 30C in Budapest and Deschamps felt France struggled because of the heat.
Pogba was widely lauded following his performance against Germany, which reignited the debate he is more effective for his country than his club, despite impressing for United this calendar year. Yet Pogba's United campaign ended on a whimper when he was outperformed by Scott McTominay and substituted in the Europa League final defeat to Villarreal.
At his post-match press conference against Hungary, Deschamps was informed there had been 'a lot of media attention in the British press that the Pogba we see playing for France is different from the Pogba we see playing for [Ole Gunnar] Solskjaer in Manchester'.
"For me, it's only the French Pogba that counts," Deschamps said. "Obviously, everything that I say is going to... I don't like to say what is happening at club football, be it talking about Solskjaer or any other coach. Players are different, coaches are different.
"What's important for me is only what he's doing for the French team and the importance he has on the pitch. He's a real born leader, even though, yes, maybe today he didn't have his best performance.
"But he had a blinder against Germany. He was slightly not as good today but he is a highly influential player."
