'Paul Pogba plays like a schoolboy'

Writing in the 'Sunday Times', Souness was critical of Pogba's positional play. "When he's asked to do a job centrally, he's forever straying towards the ball. A central midfielder should never be in areas wider than the penalty box, unless they are out there to confront danger defensively," Souness said.

"'He will do something clever in the final third, but will be absent when his back four are under the cosh. He plays like a schoolboy running after the ball in the playground."

It was a damning assesment from Souness, who won three European cups as a player, but he did go on to defend Romelu Lukaku. Souness is of the opinion that because of the 'Red Devils' midfield issues, the big Belgian isn't getting the service he needs to thrive. 

"'Romelu Lukaku has faced some criticism, but he's not been getting chances put on a plate. He could do with an Eriksen-type doing that for him. United are crying out for a clever passer. Juan Mata can do it, but he can't get around the pitch the way that Eriksen does," he continued. 

Manchester United play Newcastle on Saturday with Pogba widely expected to return to the starting lineup being benched in United's 2-0 victory over Huddesfield last weekend.