PARIS, June 12 — France midfielder Paul Pogba can put an underwhelming season at Manchester United behind him and make an impact at the World Cup, according to former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna.

Pogba, 25, endured an inconsistent Premier League campaign, scoring six goals and providing 10 assists in 27 appearances, as United finished second in the standings.

"Paul is a special character and he’s very important for the team,” Sagna, who played for France 65 times, told Sky Sports.

"He had a so-so season with Manchester United because he got a lot of criticism... People have to remember he is only a holding midfield player and he has orders from the manager.

"That’s what he’s been doing, but I’m looking forward to seeing him shining and he’s going to shine.”

France open their World Cup campaign against Australia on June 16 and also play Peru and Denmark in Group C. — Reuters