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Mourinho: Pogba must play with 'same mentality' as team

Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Manager Jose Mourinho has revealed what Paul Pogba must do to reclaim his place in the starting team.

Although Mourinho said Pogba will make his second start in the last four matches against Valencia on Wednesday, the Portuguese boss wouldn't guarantee a starting spot for the 25-year-old moving forward.

"He has to play with the same mentality that the team has been playing with," Mourinho told reporters, according to Simon Stone of BBC Sport, after United's 4-1 win over Fulham.

"Paul can be a fantastic player. He has the potential to be a fantastic player."

Pogba's omission from Saturday's win at Old Trafford was the first time he had failed to appear in a game while healthy since March 17 during an FA Cup win over Brighton and Hove Albion.

The midfielder was also left out of the starting team ahead of United's midweek draw against Arsenal, but came on to replace Jesse Lingard late in the second half.

The United manager and Pogba have been at odds at various points throughout the season, with their relationship appearing to be in shambles in September during a heated exchange at training. The altercation was reportedly a misunderstanding over Pogba's use of Instagram during a United match while he was on the bench.

Pogba, who returned to United from Juventus for £89 million in 2016, will have a chance to prove his worth when the Red Devils wrap-up the Champions League group stage in Spain. United booked their ticket to the knockout stage by beating Young Boys last month.

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