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Man Utd’s chances of a top four finish depend on these TWO players - pundit
MANCHESTER UNITED’s hopes of a top four finish rest on keeping Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial fit.
Mourinho backing of Pogba penalties sparks fan OUTRAGE
That’s the verdict from BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks.
Manchester United recorded a 2-1 win over Everton on Sunday to move up to eighth in the Premier League table.
Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial were the stars of the show as both players bagged the goals with the former also providing the assist for his team-mate.
Both players have endured mixed fortunes under Jose Mourinho in recent months.
United could figure in the top four after all if they can keep these two guys fit
Martial declared he wanted to leave in the summer, and also angered his manager for leaving their pre-season tour of the United States for the birth of his child and then not returning.
Meanwhile, Pogba’s public spats with Mourinho has been well documented and resulted in him losing his vice-captaincy duties.
But Crooks feels the French duo will be a vital part for Mourinho’s quest to finish in the top four.
“When a Jose Mourinho side are winning, they are the most boring team on the planet.
"When they are chasing a game, they can be most exciting.
“Fortunately for United, they have Paul Pogba and Martial creating at the moment.
“Martial is in sparkling form, with two goals against Chelsea last weekend and another against Everton on Sunday.
“United could figure in the top four after all if they can keep these two guys fit.”
Crooks was also impressed with defender Victor Lindelof for his display against the Toffees.
The Swede has been in and out of Mourinho’s side since his £31m switch from Valencia in the summer of 2017 and has often come under criticism.
“I have watched this lad perform for Manchester United with my head in my hands in utter despair at times. But not any more,” Crooks said.
“Playing at Old Trafford is all about coming to terms with the pressure and this is what Lindelof has done.
“Eric Bailly has buckled under that expectation but Sweden international Lindelof has stood firm under the most intense scrutiny and that was very evident against Everton. He has courage.”
United are next in action on Saturday when they make the trip to Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth (12.30pm).