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Ex-France midfielder Bixente Lizarazu believes Paul Pogba is struggling to deal with pressure and high expectations

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Expectations on the France and Juventus midfielder were extraordinary, particularly given the constant media speculation over his supposed move to one of a number of European clubs.

Unfortunately for the player and France supporters, he has been unable to produce the exceptional form he showed in the Serie A this past season, his performances in the competition's group stages being particularly unimpressive.

"Pogba has great potential," Lizarazu toldĀ AS. "He has it all - technical quality and physical prowess. The problem is we expect a lot from him and we want to see him at his highest level all the time," he continued.

"Sometimes, we forget that he is only 23, that there's always development in a footballer. It's not easy for him to cope with the pressure and that's been noticed in the tournament."

The former Bordeaux full-back also heaped praise on Les Bleus duo Dimitri Payet and Antoine Griezzman.

"Griezmann is a player who always looks calm on the pitch. This is not the Griezmann of the World Cup, who was able to play well but wasn't obliged to make the difference," he said.

"He can decide things and he's been doing that. He was key to Atletico Madrid in their big games with Barcelona and Bayern and he's done the same in high-pressure games for France.

"Six months ago, Payet wasn't in the squad. It's incredible what he's done. He has played world-class games," the 46-year-old added.

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