Paul Pogba hails Paul Scholes, Andrea Pirlo influence

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 08 June 2016

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba hails the influence that former Manchester United teammate Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo had on his career.

Juventus midfielder Paul Pogba has hailed the influence that Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have had on his career.

The 23-year-old has developed into one of the most sought-after players in world football since leaving Manchester United for Turin on a free transfer in 2012, helping Juve to four consecutive Serie A titles.

Pogba's career path has seen him learn from the likes of Scholes and Pirlo, and the France international has paid tribute to the midfield pair.

"With them you train to the end, up to perfection, because Paul Scholes - despite his age - was still there at the end of practice, hitting long passes, shots. He didn't miss one. When you're there, you have to adapt fast. I like that - always challenges," he told ESPN.

When asked what he learned from Pirlo, he added: "His calmness, his confidence. He'd miss a pass and it didn't matter - he was sure he'd succeed with the next one. He could decide matches. I'd like to be as decisive. Before he got the ball, he knew who he would give it to - Pirlo, Paul Scholes, they knew how to read the game.

"I manage that from time to time. Because I'm fairly big, I like to use my body. So I'll control the ball, even when there's a player on me, and then I'll pass. They are smaller, so they'll play faster so as not to be touched."

Pogba also outlined his respect for former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, despite the pair falling out over the player's exit from Old Trafford.