Mourinho hits out at 'envy'

JOSE Mourinho launched a staunch defence of Paul Pogba, the world's most expensive player, ahead of the Europa League clash against Rostov.

Pogba returned to Old Trafford in August to an enormous fanfare and huge cost, with Juventus potentially receiving 110m euros (£93.25m) for the midfielder.

However, the 24-year-old has flattered to deceive at times since returning to United and criticism peaked following an underwhelming display in Monday's FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea.

Few gave Mourinho's claims that he was the 'best player on the pitch' much credence, but the Portuguese has now hit back at the criticisms from some onlookers.

"I feel that the world is losing values and we all know that," he said ahead of United's Europa League last-16 second leg at home to the Russian side tonight.

"And envy is coming to certain levels that I'm scared. It's not Paul's fault that he gets 10 times the money that some players did in the past."

Anthony Martial and Wayne Rooney will not figure in the return against Rostov, with the tie in the balance after the first leg ended 1-1.