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Paul Pogba shrugging off criticism of France performances

Manchester United star sets sights on lifting World Cup

Paul Pogba celebrates his winning goal

France midfielder Paul Pogba says he is determined to enjoy the World Cup this summer because it "may be my last one".

The Manchester United man is only 25 and may well have more tournaments in him - but he says that cannot be taken for granted.

France have already qualified for the last 16 after wins over Australia and Denmark, but they have been more workmanlike than impressive so far.

Their star-studded line-up has come in for some criticism but Pogba says he is unconcerned and is focused only on potentially winning the World Cup trophy.

Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba discuss their options for a freekick
Image: Paul Pogba and Antoine Griezmann will be back in action against Denmark on Tuesday

"This is maybe my last one," said Pogba.

"I really want to enjoy this and to forget all the criticism, all the whispers from behind. What only matters to me is what is happening on the pitch.

"I'm here to give everything for this jersey, for my team, for France. I really want to win this World Cup."

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Asked if France were capable of going all the way, Pogba said: "It's possible. Everything is possible.

"We do know that nothing is going to be easy, as you have seen in the World Cup games. Nothing is easy, it's the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappe celebrates scoring the opening goal with his team-mate Antoine Griezmann
Image: France have won both of their World Cup matches so far but without looking massively impressive

"There is no little team or even average players. I know we can do it but there is still a long road to go.

"We will have to fight and to be strong."

Pogba has not been a runaway success yet at United and was even left out at times by manager Jose Mourinho last season.

He said: "There was little things with [Mourinho] we can say, but nothing after all. These things make you grow also.

"I never had this experience so far, to sit on the bench in a season, after being a starter in the team.

"This is also the coach's job, this is his role, I need to accept that.

"And like I'm always saying, the only answer is on the pitch."

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