Del Piero: Pogba merits Juve’s No.10 shirt with his style of play

ALESSANDRO Del Piero believes Paul Pogba will prove worthy of the iconic No.10 shirt at Juventus if given time.

Pogba was handed the jersey – previously worn by the likes of Michel Platini, Roberto Baggio and Del Piero himself – following the departure of Carlos Tevez to Boca Juniors in June.

Despite initial expectations, the 22-year-old has suffered a dip in form this season, supplying just two assists and scoring three goals in Serie A, with the Serie A champions lying fourth.

Nevertheless, Del Piero still considers the midfielder his heir, and has backed him to eventually demonstrate what is expected of a player in the famed shirt.

“I don’t know (if it was right to give Pogba the No.10), but Paul is a player with a lot of talent,” the former Bianconeri captain told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“If we think the No.10 should be given to a player that impresses with his style of play then he is the right man.

“The number is more than just an expression of ability, it is more important than just that.

“However, Pogba will reach that level. He must be given time.”

Juve have recovered from their early season struggles to move three points behind league leaders Inter, but Del Piero believes the quality of the league has declined in recent years and he cannot foresee rapid improvements.

“The teams are competitive among themselves which is something to be proud of,” he continued.

“Serie A is different from a few seasons ago. The best players no longer play there, and they won’t arrive either.

• Culled from Goal.com