Paul Pogba has insisted he has “no problem” with José Mourinho despite not being selected for several key matches by the Manchester United manager in recent weeks.

The France midfielder returned to the starting lineup for the first time in three matches as United overcame Swansea 2-0 on Saturday to maintain their hold on second place in the Premier League table.

Mourinho had challenged journalists to “ask him yourself” when questioned over Pogba’s lack of form before the match but in an interview with the French broadcaster Telefoot the 25-year-old made it clear his absence in crucial matches against Sevilla and Liverpool was not his choice.

“There is no problem with Mourinho,” he said. “It’s not me who picks the team. Ask the coach if you want to know why I play less. I respect his choices. It’s true [being benched] has never happened to me, but it can strengthen me. You have to go through these periods to make you stronger.”

Asked if he was thinking of leaving United, he added: “It’s too early to say. The situation can change.”