Manchester United legend Roy Keane has leapt to the defence of Paul Pogba.

The Frenchman has often been made a scapegoat for United's troubles in recent seasons, with pundits critical of his perceived indifference to playing for the club.

Juventus and Real Madrid have been linked with a move for the World Cup winner, who has only recently returned to action after a long injury lay-off.

But Keane believes Pogba would receive far less criticism if United were winning every week, comparing his personality to former teammates David Beckham and Eric Cantona.

He told the Sunday Independent: "Obviously Pogba has had his critics because he is so talented.

"If you are not performing week in, week out people are going to get on your back. I always say there is a compliment in that.

"People know he's an outstanding talent but for some reason, it hasn't gelled. He obviously had the injury problem this season.

"Just because a player is having a difficult time doesn't mean they aren't giving their all. Sometimes a player might be carrying a few knocks. Players lose a little bit of confidence.

"Everyone is quick to criticise Pogba for his off-the-field stuff, but let me tell you if Pogba was winning week in and week out for United people would tolerate his off-the-field activity, his social media activity.

"I was in the dressing room with players like Pogba. There were players at Man United who were interested in their hair. We had David Beckham and Lee Sharpe but I loved these lads.

"I've nothing against people.. Jesus what do you think I am? I like people who are a bit edgy. If we were all the same it would be boring.

"This idea of lads coming in with different cars and watches I loved all that. That would add to the energy of the dressing room because you have a mixture of characters.

"[Eric] Cantona and the French boys. I always enjoyed the Dutch lads, the Scandinavian lads. You needed that mix. Look at Liverpool, different dynamics. Manchester City.

"The key for Pogba, if he wants to become a really important player for Man United, is consistency. It's no good turning up every two or three weeks and producing your piece of magic.

"I think he is more than capable of doing it, he has done it before. But do it week in and week out and get Man United competing for titles. I have a lot of time for him. I think he's a talented boy."