Jose Mourinho has the full backing of Manchester United to undertake a radical overhaul of his underperforming squad this summer – even if that means selling Paul Pogba.

The United midfielder is still understood to be part of Mourinho’s plans, as things stand, but the manager was extremely disappointed and, crucially, felt let down by his performance during the shocking defeat at home by West Bromwich Albion last Sunday and is expecting a response from the midfielder from now until the end of the season.

If Pogba does not improve his form then Mourinho could attempt to force him out of United.

The United board remain adamant the club has made progress under Mourinho, even if they do not win a trophy this season, but he has to push on in the next campaign to mount a far more serious title challenge to Manchester City if he is to maintain that support.

Mourinho is fully aware of the situation and knows that if United do not do better in the league and the Champions League then his own position will quickly come under threat. United regard winning football as entertaining football and will accept Mourinho’s dourness if the team is successful.