Paul Pogba is now a World Cup winner, with Patrice Evra among those to have delighted in seeing the Manchester United star offer the perfect response to his “bullsh*t” critics.
Having faced questions regarding his on and off-field activity throughout the 2017-18 campaign, the 25-year-old could have been forgiven for entering a showpiece event on Russian soil low on confidence.
Self-esteem has, however, rarely been an issue throughout a colourful career and Pogba set about silencing his detractors in the best possible manner once linking up with his country.
Given the freedom by France boss Didier Deschamps to dictate proceedings from a playmaking post, the £89 million man starred for Les Bleus as they swept to a second World Cup crown.
Pogba was able to pull the strings at the heart of the side alongside N’Golo Kante, with there a swagger returned to his game which has often been missing at Old Trafford.
He was among the goals as France secured global glory with a 4-2 victory over Croatia on Sunday, with his post-match celebrations offering a nod to those who have been quick to write him off.
Fellow countryman Evra believes Pogba has every right to revel in the spotlight, with criticism of a superstar performer having gone too far at times.
The former United defender said in a video posted on Instagram: “Respect him! Respect!
“Why are you talking all this bullsh*t about my brother? Why you always talk bullsh*t about him? Respect him!
“Oh my goodness! I can’t wait, Paul, I can’t wait until you come back to England with the trophy.
“Respect my brother. You crazy or what?!”
The challenge facing Pogba now is transferring his international form back onto a domestic stage.
United, following a trophyless campaign last time out, will be expected to challenge for major honours at home and abroad in 2018-19.
If the Red Devils are to sustain bids for Premier League and Champions League prizes, then they will need star turns performing at the peak of their powers.
Pogba falls into that category, despite the issues he has had with Jose Mourinho in the past, with it up to the Portuguese coach at Old Trafford to learn from France’s success and deploy an all-action midfielder in a role similar to that which he enjoys with his country.
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