JOSE MOURINHO has pointedly urged Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba to “understand why” he was one of the stars of France’s World Cup triumph.

Pogba superbly netted Les Bleus’ third goal in Sunday’s 4-2 final win over Croatia, capping an excellent individual campaign in Russia.

The 25-year-old grew into the tournament and the spectacle of him shining on the biggest stage came in stark contrast to a fractious season under Mourinho at Old Trafford.

Pogba found himself left on the bench for both legs of the Champions League last-16 defeat to Sevilla and was withdrawn during losses to Tottenham and Newcastle United, as speculation mounted over a breakdown in relations with his manager.

Speaking at his first news conference of United’s pre-season tour of the United States, Mourinho confirmed Wednesday he passed on congratulations to Pogba and hailed his performances during the latter stages of the competition.

The United manager now hopes the club’s record signing has the awareness to bring this form into the Premier League.

“I hope that he understands why he was very good,” Mourinho said.

“I think that’s the point about his performance level and his contribution to a winning team — for him to understand why he was so good, especially in the second part of the competition.

(SD-Agencies)