I know the real Jadon Sancho and Paul Pogba - they were misunderstood at Manchester United

Jesse Lingard reckons Jadon Sancho and Paul Pogba were often 'misunderstood' at Manchester United.

Lingard, who spent over 20 years at United, worked under several different managers from Louis van Gaal to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and he's now plying his trade over in South Korea for FC Seoul. The 31-year-old won the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and the Europa League in his time at Old Trafford.

The former Nottingham Forest man has endured a difficult period over the last two years - with countless knee injuries and also the passing of his beloved grandmother presenting him with various challenges to overcome. Speaking to The Times, recently, Lingard shared some 'home truths' about two individuals who he believes didn't enjoy the best treatment during their own association with the club.

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"A couple of years ago when I opened up about my mum's depression and my own mental health, many reached out, especially footballers," began Lingard in his exclusive column. "Yes, we have the dream career [as footballers], but we're just human beings too and it might surprise you how many are going through certain situations.

"I messaged Jadon Sancho with some support and we spoke regularly when he was going through tough times at United. Another of my boys is Paul Pogba. We connected from day one when he arrived in United's academy aged 16 and I love the kid.

"So many people want to judge him, but I always think; 'Jeez, you just don't know him as a person'. If you actually sat down and spoke to Paul then you'd find he's one of the humblest individuals you'll ever meet and football - he loves it to death. He has so much dedication, his own personal trainers, physios, chefs.

Lingard and Pogba's relationship caused quite the stir during their time at the club, with many fans thinking their friendship caused 'toxicity' in the changing room. Pogba never saw eye to eye with Jose Mourinho - while Sancho too endured difficulties with Ten Hag, with the winger now at Chelsea on an initial loan deal.

"But I just think that, as with me, a certain section of the public forms an impression from social media," he added. "When we're seen dancing or having fun, all we're doing is expressing ourselves and trying to connect with our followers. We're happy-go-lucky, good energy, good vibes. We live in the moment - and what's wrong with that?"