Deschamps: Pogba won't be affected by speculation

10 June 2016 09:53

The Juventus midfielder has been heavily linked with Barcelona, with rumours that he has already bought a house in the area, while Real Madrid are also said to be interested in the 23-year-old.

Pogba is set to be one of the key figures in the French midfield as they look to kick off their campaign with a win in Paris, and Deschamps insists Pogba is not being distracted by the speculation.

"I've just found that out [the Madrid link] from you because I don't watch the TV or read the papers - even less so in Italy because I know how things work in Italy," said Deschamps.

"As for Paul, he's very focused on what we expect. There hasn't been any distractions to his mindset going into the competition.

"As of this moment in time he is a Juventus player and a France player.

"While he is in the competition he will focus on what we have to do. Even though he is young, Paul can manage these situations."

France are hosting a major football tournament for the first time since 1998, when Deschamps captained them to World Cup glory.

But despite their record on home soil, having also won the 1984 European Championships in France, Deschamps is refusing to look to the past.

"Honestly I don't look back. It was so long ago," he added.

"I didn't have the same role. I consider it to be a pleasure. We've been preparing for two years with my coaching team.

"We've done everything we can to prepare for this match. It's a privilege. We can't wait to start."

Source: Sportsbeat