France boss Didier Deschamps says he believes in Paul Pogba's honesty after the midfielder apologised for causing controversy after the win over Albania.

The Juventus star was pictured appearing to make a 'bras d'honneur' motion in the direction of the media section at Stade Velodrome at the end of the 2-0 victory on Wednesday.

Pogba, who has been criticised for his performances at Euro 2016 so far, issued an apology in which he insisted there was no malicious intent behind his gesture.

And Deschamps says he has every faith in the 23-year-old's integrity after a private discussion between the two.

The head coach told a news conference in Lille: "He has explained himself and I believe in his honesty. What's most important is what he told me."

France captain Hugo Lloris had earlier given his backing to Pogba and Antoine Griezmann - who were dropped from the starting line-up against Albania - and expects them to produce their best form at key moments.

"As I said before Albania, it's only natural that there are expectations, they have big statuses in the games and they had good seasons," the goalkeeper said. "Griezmann went to the Champions League final with Atletico Madrid.

"I think the players wait for the big moments. Griezmann made the difference against Albania with his goal and Pogba was much better, he was aggressive and imposed himself.

"It's a long competition – we'll need them at one point or another."