Jose Mourinho claims Paul Pogba was "the BEST player on the pitch" as Manchester United lost at Chelsea

The Frenchman turned in a disappointing display at Stamford Bridge as he was outshone in the battle with countryman Kante

Manchester United's Paul Pogba in action with Chelsea's N'Golo Kante (Photo: REUTERS)

   Jose Mourinho incredibly suggested Paul Pogba deserved the man of the match award after Manchester United's defeat to Chelsea.

The Frenchman had a night to forget at Stamford Bridge as he was outshone in the battle with countryman N'Golo Kante.

Kante grabbed the winner in the FA Cup quarter-final tie , as he continued his march towards the Player of the Year prizes with another fine display.

Yet in his post-match interview, the United boss suggested Pogba was the star of the show - although there will have been next to nobody in agreement.

Manchester United's Paul Pogba looks dejected (Photo: PA)

"We have to be positive, the players were phenomenal but Pogba was by far the best player on the pitch," Mourinho said.

"He was a giant on the pitch. After him, all my other boys were fantastic.

"The specialists will say a lot about him and it comes from envy.

United now take on Rostov in the Europa League as they look to secure a cup double this term.

Mourinho admitted he doesn't know if Wayne Rooney will be fit to return but Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be back after a domestic ban.

"I cannot be more proud of my players and I say it again, our fans," he added.

"Tomorrow is another working day and we look to Rostov now."



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