Didier Deschamps commended the display of France match-winner Paul Pogba against Australia, saying his display proves he knows how to use the Manchester United man.
Pogba came into the World Cup after a difficult season which has been mired by consistency problems at United, with Jose Mourinho even opting to drop him on more than one occasion.
One of the main issues with Pogba for both club and country is that his coaches have been accused of not knowing where his best position is.
In France’s unconvincing 2-1 win over Australia in Kazan on Saturday, Pogba played as part of a midfield three and scored the winning goal, to the delight of Deschamps, who was quick to give himself a pat on the back.
“It means that I know how to use him, as he was very good,” Deschamps told reporters at the Kazan Arena.
“I won’t tell you what happened with Pogba. I was criticised because it was said I don’t know how to use him.
“Pogba has very good potential, lots of ability and he played well. He found his register, had a lot of freedom and also had a defensive role to play.
“With three he is better off than with two, he feels more at ease.”