Paul Pogba produced one of his best performances yet in a Manchester United shirt during Saturday’s derby, and what a time to do it.

The France international scored twice in the space of two minutes to help the Red Devils put Manchester City’s title celebrations on ice while hauling themselves four points clear of third-placed Liverpool.

Jose Mourinho can only be pleased to see Pogba shine in such a crucial match, though he expects more of the same from his £89 million midfielder going forward.

“Of course, two goals for a midfield player in a big match like this one stays in the memory of the people, especially the fans,” the United boss said after the 3-2 victory, per ESPN.

"He needs that confidence because he knows, I know, he had some performances not at the level of expectation we have from Paul. But he's improving."

Pogba’s glittering display comes amid speculation he may leave Old Trafford, perhaps even to join Pep Guardiola across town following alleged contact between City and his agent, Mino Raiola.

But Mourinho has made light of any suggestion his two-goal hero could soon be sold, saying with a smile: “If it's true that his agent offered him to some clubs, now the price has gone up.”

Pogba’s contribution in all competitions this season stands at six goals and ten assists – well below the output expected of him when he returned to Manchester two years ago.

However, of all his teammates, the former Juventus star says Michael Carrick is the most useful source of advice when it comes to improving his prolificness in attacking areas.

"I know they love to attack, they don't like to defend, so I knew I had to get in the box," Pogba said.

"I know I have Matic behind.

"You score one goal and your confidence goes up. [Alexis Sanchez] always tells me when you pass me the ball, 'Just make the run, I see you.’

"I give the credit to Michael [Carrick] because every time after the game he shows me the video, make those runs.

“He has helped me a lot with this, every time after training or every time after a game he will say, 'It's very important, nobody can stop you.' It's hard to make this run, because you have to stay, you have to control.”

For a player who’s made only four completive appearances for United this campaign, it seems Carrick still has a telling influence in the dressing room.

If it wasn’t already among his future plans, the 36-year-old may well have a bright future among the coaching staff at Carrington.