Anthony Martial has defended under-fire Manchester United and France teammate Paul Pogba, labelling him as ‘the best midfielder in the world’.

Pogba has had a mixed season at United: after a positive start, injuries and suspension halted his season. Although he is back fit, he has failed to recapture his best form. Since the turn of the year, Pogba has found himself out of Jose Mourinho’s starting lineup on a number of occasions due to a perceived lack of trust by his manager.

Martial, however, still strongly believes in his teammate’s ability and has even backed him for the game’s highest individual prize, the Ballon d’Or.

‘I would say that Paul is probably the best midfield player in the world,’ he told the Daily Star.

‘He is very strong mentally and very sure of himself. He’s a big guy, very technical on the ball and has lots of endurance.

‘He’s still young, so he has a lot to work on and he can get even better. If he continues to improve, then I think he’s going to win the Ballon d’Or award in the next five years.’