Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has branded Nicolas Anelka as one of the players who had a major influence on his career.

It comes as a surprising statement considering that Anelka is regarded as one of the journeyman in football. He has represented several club like Arsenal, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton, and Chelsea. The total transfer fees are spent on acquiring Anelka at various stages in his career exceed £100 million, making him one of the world’s most expensive player in terms of cumulative transfer fees. In front, he has cost more than Paul Pogba, who is the world’s most expensive midfielder at £ 89 million.

Pogba says that a number of personalities have helped him at various stages in his career. He has also branded Patrice Evra as a big brother to him. Initially struggling upon his arrival at Manchester United, former has certainly found the form that has made him one of the deadliest midfielders in the world.

The Frenchman continues to be a key part of the United set up, and he is their highest earner at wages of £ 290,000 per week. Anelka was last seen in the Indian Super League playing for Mumbai City as he approaches the end of his career.

“You might be surprised… Nicolas Anelka, Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand, Ferguson as well, Conte. Those people have helped me a lot to get where I am now. A player I always look up to is Patrice Evra. He’s family, that’s how I see him, and he’s always looked after me, helped me and given me advice. He’s someone on the pitch who is very serious and very professional, yet away from the pitch he’s a brother and someone you can have a laugh with – as you’ve seen on our videos on Instagram!” said Pogba.