Solskjaer reacts to Pogba’s woeful performance in Watford win

However, Marcus Rashford’s opener in the 28th minute saw the hosts return to the match, as the first half finished 1-0.

In the second half Anthony Martial controversially doubled the Red Devils lead, with Solskjaer’s men surviving a stoppage time scare after Abdoulaye Doucoure’s last-gasp strike.

Pogba played the entire 90-minutes of the match, but was unable to exert his usual influence against the Hornets who were well organised in all departments.

The Frenchman has been in spectacular form since the arrival of Solskjaer, playing an integral part in the Norwegian’s impressive run since replacing Jose Mourinho back in December.

Asked about what he thought about Pogba’s poor performance, the former Molde FK manager said: “Paul [Pogba] is important for us and we couldn’t keep the ball today.”

“He’s been away for two games with France and played a bit deeper, so maybe we have to get him more of the ball,” he added.

The 46-year-old further acknowledged his side’s overall performance was far from perfect, but was encouraged with a positive response in the latter stages of both halves.

Meanwhile, United’s crucial win saw them leapfrog Arsenal into fourth on the standings with 61 points.