Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas says he owes Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho a debt of gratitude for handing him a second chance in English football.

The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign.

But win or lose, Fabregas says he is full of admiration for the man who signed him for Chelsea in 2014, during Mourinho's second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge.

After three years at boyhood club Barcelona, following a move from Arsenal where Fabregas spent almost a decade, the 31-year-old proved a pivotal figure as Chelsea claimed the 2014-15 title, providing a league-leading 18 goal assists.

"I love him. I always say that. I owe him a lot because he brought me here, I will always remember that" Fabregas told reporters at Chelsea's training ground this week.

"My first year here, (former Arsenal manager) Arsene (Wenger) had always treated me like a son. But the closest anyone has been to him was Jose.

"The way he treated me, the way he made me feel, how he let me be a leader of the team from day one. This was fantastic and in all the four years since I joined Chelsea now, they will always stay with me.

"This experience is thanks to him."

Yet Fabregas has spent a large part of his career in opposition to Mourinho -- as he will do again at Wembley on Saturday when Chelsea hope to make up for finishing fifth in the Premier League with a first FA Cup win since 2012.

The early years of Fabregas's stint at Arsenal coincided with Mourinho's arrival as manager of Chelsea, while he was also part of a Barcelona side that was vying for Spanish supremacy with Mourinho's Real Madrid.

"We have our history between us," Fabregas said. "I played for Arsenal and him at Chelsea. Barcelona with him Real Madrid. We were confronting each other, but then we humbled ourselves and started a good relationship.

"This is very nice but hopefully it will not be his day (on Saturday) and Chelsea can win."

Apart from Fabregas, several other players from the 2014-15 title-winning team including Gary Cahill, Willian and Eden Hazard will be involved on Saturday.

While they will all be familiar with Mourinho's methods, Fabregas knows their old manager will conjure something new for a one-off game that means so much to both teams.

"In the last two years we played many games against them and he has changed the system many times," Fabregas said.

"I am sure he will change something again on Saturday. You can expect that. We just need to prepare our game and focus on ourselves. We don't need to be thinking too much about what they are going to do and we have to do what we do."

United finished runners-up in the Premier League and are favourites against a Chelsea side who ended the league season with a 3-0 defeat by Newcastle United.

Fabregas said last season's final when Chelsea lost to Arsenal after winning the Premier League title showed why the Wembley showpiece is so hard to call.

"Anything can happen really," he said. "Last year everyone was saying Chelsea will win it and we played one of our worst games of last season. Mourinho prepares finals very well and I am sure Antonio (Conte) will do the same."

The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign

Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas says he owes Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho a debt of gratitude for handing him a second chance in English football. The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign. But win or lose, Fabregas says he is full of admiration for the man who signed him for Chelsea in 2014, during Mourinho's second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge. After three years at boyhood club Barcelona, following a move from Arsenal where Fabregas spent almost a decade, the 31-year-old proved a pivotal figure as Chelsea claimed the 2014-15 title, providing a league-leading 18 goal assists. "I love him. I always say that. I owe him a lot because he brought me here, I will always remember that" Fabregas told reporters at Chelsea's training ground this week. "My first year here, (former Arsenal manager) Arsene (Wenger) had always treated me like a son. But the closest anyone has been to him was Jose. "The way he treated me, the way he made me feel, how he let me be a leader of the team from day one. This was fantastic and in all the four years since I joined Chelsea now, they will always stay with me. "This experience is thanks to him." Yet Fabregas has spent a large part of his career in opposition to Mourinho -- as he will do again at Wembley on Saturday when Chelsea hope to make up for finishing fifth in the Premier League with a first FA Cup win since 2012. The early years of Fabregas's stint at Arsenal coincided with Mourinho's arrival as manager of Chelsea, while he was also part of a Barcelona side that was vying for Spanish supremacy with Mourinho's Real Madrid. "We have our history between us," Fabregas said. "I played for Arsenal and him at Chelsea. Barcelona with him Real Madrid. We were confronting each other, but then we humbled ourselves and started a good relationship. "This is very nice but hopefully it will not be his day (on Saturday) and Chelsea can win." Apart from Fabregas, several other players from the 2014-15 title-winning team including Gary Cahill, Willian and Eden Hazard will be involved on Saturday. While they will all be familiar with Mourinho's methods, Fabregas knows their old manager will conjure something new for a one-off game that means so much to both teams. "In the last two years we played many games against them and he has changed the system many times," Fabregas said. "I am sure he will change something again on Saturday. You can expect that. We just need to prepare our game and focus on ourselves. We don't need to be thinking too much about what they are going to do and we have to do what we do." United finished runners-up in the Premier League and are favourites against a Chelsea side who ended the league season with a 3-0 defeat by Newcastle United. Fabregas said last season's final when Chelsea lost to Arsenal after winning the Premier League title showed why the Wembley showpiece is so hard to call. "Anything can happen really," he said. "Last year everyone was saying Chelsea will win it and we played one of our worst games of last season. Mourinho prepares finals very well and I am sure Antonio (Conte) will do the same."

'I owe a debt of gratitude to Jose Mourinho': Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea.

The former England midfielder hung up his boots on Sunday after United's final Premier League game of the season against Watford.

The following day he began his new job as a member of manager Jose Mourinho's coaching staff, with this weekend's clash against Chelsea at Wembley his first assignment.

"It changes overnight," Carrick said. "I am not training this week. I am going to jump on the staff."

The 36-year-old had other options as he approached the end of his playing career but the chance to work under Mourinho was too good to refuse.

"A couple of years ago I thought maybe it would be a good thing to spend time with the family, but then it's about timing and opportunities," said Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United over 12 years after earlier spells with West Ham and Tottenham.

"You never know what is going to be around the corner. As soon as this came up I didn't think twice.

"He is one of the best, he's been around for many years and it all fits in. I've been at this club, and it is such a great club, so I obviously know the club and the manager."

Carrick said he is considering moving into management one day but it is not something he intends to push for yet.

The midfielder was given a guard of honour by both teams on Sunday and had a hand in the only goal of the game, playing Juan Mata in behind the defence for the Spaniard to tee up Marcus Rashford.

He was substituted late in the game to a huge ovation, with supporters recognising his role in five Premier League title successes and one Champions League triumph.

&nbsp

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea. The former England midfielder hung up his boots on Sunday after United's final Premier League game of the season against Watford. The following day he began his new job as a member of manager Jose Mourinho's coaching staff, with this weekend's clash against Chelsea at Wembley his first assignment. "It changes overnight," Carrick said. "I am not training this week. I am going to jump on the staff." The 36-year-old had other options as he approached the end of his playing career but the chance to work under Mourinho was too good to refuse. "A couple of years ago I thought maybe it would be a good thing to spend time with the family, but then it's about timing and opportunities," said Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United over 12 years after earlier spells with West Ham and Tottenham. "You never know what is going to be around the corner. As soon as this came up I didn't think twice. "He is one of the best, he's been around for many years and it all fits in. I've been at this club, and it is such a great club, so I obviously know the club and the manager." Carrick said he is considering moving into management one day but it is not something he intends to push for yet. The midfielder was given a guard of honour by both teams on Sunday and had a hand in the only goal of the game, playing Juan Mata in behind the defence for the Spaniard to tee up Marcus Rashford. He was substituted late in the game to a huge ovation, with supporters recognising his role in five Premier League title successes and one Champions League triumph.

Michael Carrick makes immediate switch to coaching role at Manchester United

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is not surprised by Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah's exploits in the current campaign and said the decision to sell the Egyptian to Roma in 2016 was made by the Premier League club.

Salah joined Chelsea under Mourinho in 2014 but failed to establish himself at Stamford Bride and was loaned out to Fiorentina and Roma before a permanent move to the Stadio Olimpico outfit in 2016.

The 25-year-old returned to England league with Liverpool this season and has excelled, scoring 31 goals in 33 matches to win the Professional Footballers' Association's Player of the Year award.

"People say that I was the one that sold Salah and it is the opposite," Mourinho, who currently manages Manchester United, told ESPN.

"I was the one that bought Salah. I was the one that told Chelsea to buy Salah... But he came as a young kid, physically he was not ready, mentally he was not ready, socially and culturally he was lost and everything was tough for him.

"Chelsea decided to sell him, OK? ... So the decision to send him on loan was a decision we made collectively, but after that, the decision to sell him and to use that money to buy another player wasn't mine... "

Salah has scored 43 goals across all competitions this season and is in contention to win the European Golden Boot.

"I think everything has surprised even him. It has been fantastic," Mourinho added.

"But he is a great player that has reached the peak of maturity, he has already lived several other experiences and now has fitted perfectly into the style of play of the team, of the coach and of the club as well..."

Liverpool are currently third in the league and in prime position to reach the Champions League final, after a 5-2 win in the first leg of their semi-final against Roma.

The side return to league action when they host Stoke City on Saturday while Mourinho's United host Arsenal a day later.

Salah joined Chelsea under Mourinho in 2014 but failed to establish himself at Stamford Bride and was loaned out to Fiorentina and Roma before a permanent move to the Stadio Olimpico outfit in 2016.

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is not surprised by Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah's exploits in the current campaign and said the decision to sell the Egyptian to Roma in 2016 was made by the Premier League club. Salah joined Chelsea under Mourinho in 2014 but failed to establish himself at Stamford Bride and was loaned out to Fiorentina and Roma before a permanent move to the Stadio Olimpico outfit in 2016. The 25-year-old returned to England league with Liverpool this season and has excelled, scoring 31 goals in 33 matches to win the Professional Footballers' Association's Player of the Year award. "People say that I was the one that sold Salah and it is the opposite," Mourinho, who currently manages Manchester United, told ESPN. "I was the one that bought Salah. I was the one that told Chelsea to buy Salah... But he came as a young kid, physically he was not ready, mentally he was not ready, socially and culturally he was lost and everything was tough for him. "Chelsea decided to sell him, OK? ... So the decision to send him on loan was a decision we made collectively, but after that, the decision to sell him and to use that money to buy another player wasn't mine... " Salah has scored 43 goals across all competitions this season and is in contention to win the European Golden Boot. "I think everything has surprised even him. It has been fantastic," Mourinho added. "But he is a great player that has reached the peak of maturity, he has already lived several other experiences and now has fitted perfectly into the style of play of the team, of the coach and of the club as well..." Liverpool are currently third in the league and in prime position to reach the Champions League final, after a 5-2 win in the first leg of their semi-final against Roma. The side return to league action when they host Stoke City on Saturday while Mourinho's United host Arsenal a day later.

Football: Chelsea sold Salah in 2016, not me, says Mourinho

A flash of attacking brilliance from Olivier Giroud and an emphatic header from substitute Alvaro Morata earned&nbspChelsea&nbspa 2-0 win over struggling Southampton at Wembley on Sunday and an FA Cup final date with Manchester United next month.

Giroud muscled and dribbled past three defenders and flailing keeper Alex McCarthy seconds into the second half to poke the ball home from a pass by the ever-busy Eden Hazard.

"I love to play here (Wembley) and I have been unbeaten here so hopefully for the final we are going to keep it up," Giroud, whose Arsenal side beat&nbspChelsea&nbspin the final last year, told BT sport.

Morata, who came on for Giroud, made it two in the 82nd minute, nodding Cesar Azpilicueta's cross into the net.

Relegation-threatened Southampton were outplayed for most of the match but defended manfully during a dour first half, during which&nbspChelsea&nbspforward Willian hit the crossbar.

The Saints were forced to move out of their half after Giroud's goal and came close to equalising in the 72nd minute when&nbspChelsea&nbspkeeper Willy Caballero's save kept out Nathan Redmond's rasping shot.

They also had a possible goal not given when Charlie Austin was judged to have fouled the keeper. Austin then hit the post in the dying minutes of the game.

Chelsea&nbspwill meet Jose Mourinho's United at Wembley on May 19 after the Manchester side beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 in the first semi-final on Saturday.

The clash will have added spice because of the tension between former&nbspChelsea&nbspboss Mourinho and current coach Antonio Conte.

Hazard, who has played under both managers, said: "We gave everything, we played very good football especially in the second half and controlled the game.

"Now we go to the final and for the championship (Premier League) again and then we can think about the final against Manchester United."

Chelsea&nbspare fifth in the league but Hazard said they had not given up hope of making the top four and getting a Champions League spot as well as winning the FA Cup.

Chelsea will meet Jose Mourinho's United at Wembley on May 19 in the finals of FA Cup

A flash of attacking brilliance from Olivier Giroud and an emphatic header from substitute Alvaro Morata earned&nbspChelsea&nbspa 2-0 win over struggling Southampton at Wembley on Sunday and an FA Cup final date with Manchester United next month. Giroud muscled and dribbled past three defenders and flailing keeper Alex McCarthy seconds into the second half to poke the ball home from a pass by the ever-busy Eden Hazard. "I love to play here (Wembley) and I have been unbeaten here so hopefully for the final we are going to keep it up," Giroud, whose Arsenal side beat&nbspChelsea&nbspin the final last year, told BT sport. Morata, who came on for Giroud, made it two in the 82nd minute, nodding Cesar Azpilicueta's cross into the net. Relegation-threatened Southampton were outplayed for most of the match but defended manfully during a dour first half, during which&nbspChelsea&nbspforward Willian hit the crossbar. The Saints were forced to move out of their half after Giroud's goal and came close to equalising in the 72nd minute when&nbspChelsea&nbspkeeper Willy Caballero's save kept out Nathan Redmond's rasping shot. They also had a possible goal not given when Charlie Austin was judged to have fouled the keeper. Austin then hit the post in the dying minutes of the game. Chelsea&nbspwill meet Jose Mourinho's United at Wembley on May 19 after the Manchester side beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 in the first semi-final on Saturday. The clash will have added spice because of the tension between former&nbspChelsea&nbspboss Mourinho and current coach Antonio Conte. Hazard, who has played under both managers, said: "We gave everything, we played very good football especially in the second half and controlled the game. "Now we go to the final and for the championship (Premier League) again and then we can think about the final against Manchester United." Chelsea&nbspare fifth in the league but Hazard said they had not given up hope of making the top four and getting a Champions League spot as well as winning the FA Cup.

FA Cup: Chelsea beat Southampton 2-0 in semi-final

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final between the two clubs.

Conte, who won the title with Chelsea last season, and Mourinho, the London club's most successful ever manager, have clashed on several occasions.

In January, Conte called Mourinho "a little man" after Mourinho made a pointed comment about match-fixing, a reference to Conte's four-month suspension for failing to report match-fixing while a manager in Italy. Conte was later cleared by an Italian court of any wrongdoing.

The Italian was quick to try to bury the hatchet on Sunday after Chelsea secured their place in the final on May 19 by beating Southampton 2-0 in the semi-final at Wembley.

"I think with Jose we have clarified the situation and that is the most important thing. There is not a problem between him and I," Conte said. "I think that this final is a game between two great teams."

Conte said Manchester United, who sit second in the English Premier League, would go into the final as favourites against fifth-placed Chelsea.

"I think this season we arrive not as favourite but as you know last season we lost the final despite being favourite against Arsenal," Conte said.

Southampton manager Mark Hughes said he was disappointed that referee Martin Atkinson had not chosen to use the Video Assistant Referee system when he awarded a foul after Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero failed to catch a high ball which appeared to cross the line with Chelsea 1-0 up.

"Clearly it was a match-defining moment," Hughes said. "Why it hasn’t been referred, I have no idea."

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final between the two clubs. Conte, who won the title with Chelsea last season, and Mourinho, the London club's most successful ever manager, have clashed on several occasions. In January, Conte called Mourinho "a little man" after Mourinho made a pointed comment about match-fixing, a reference to Conte's four-month suspension for failing to report match-fixing while a manager in Italy. Conte was later cleared by an Italian court of any wrongdoing. The Italian was quick to try to bury the hatchet on Sunday after Chelsea secured their place in the final on May 19 by beating Southampton 2-0 in the semi-final at Wembley. "I think with Jose we have clarified the situation and that is the most important thing. There is not a problem between him and I," Conte said. "I think that this final is a game between two great teams." Conte said Manchester United, who sit second in the English Premier League, would go into the final as favourites against fifth-placed Chelsea. "I think this season we arrive not as favourite but as you know last season we lost the final despite being favourite against Arsenal," Conte said. Southampton manager Mark Hughes said he was disappointed that referee Martin Atkinson had not chosen to use the Video Assistant Referee system when he awarded a foul after Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero failed to catch a high ball which appeared to cross the line with Chelsea 1-0 up. "Clearly it was a match-defining moment," Hughes said. "Why it hasn’t been referred, I have no idea."

Mourinho spat is over ahead of FA Cup final, says Antonio Conte

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion.

United suffered a shock 1-0 home loss to West Brom on Sunday, handing the title to Manchester City, and Mourinho said his team were the "masters of complication". They next visit Bournemouth on Wednesday before facing Spurs at Wembley.

Asked if he would rotate his players for the midweek league game on the south coast, Mourinho indicated that some of those who played against West Brom would feature again at Bournemouth because they had lost their place&nbspfor the semi-final.

"Rotating is not the right word," he was quoted as saying by The Independent. "If I play a player against Bournemouth and the player is phenomenal, he plays the semi-final.

"So is not rotating, because rotating looks like a player plays against Bournemouth to give a rest to somebody that is going to play against Spurs in the semi-final.

"So the word is not rotation, it is an opportunity for people, for some people, to play and to try to get a place in the team for Spurs. Some of the guys that played (on Sunday) don't have a place in that team."

Asked to clarify if he meant those who performed badly against West Brom would not play against Tottenham, Mourinho said: "Yeah. What is the criteria for a manager to choose a team? I only know one criteria: (it) is the way you play.

"Or do you want me to go for the price they cost, or their salary, or their beautiful face? The only way is to go with performance."

Ander Herrera was substituted at halftime against West Brom, while fellow midfielder Paul Pogba came off in the 58th minute, but Mourinho said that a yellow card had also been a factor in the Frenchman's replacement.

"It was not just him and he had a yellow card, so he was in a more difficult position than others," Mourinho said.

"And playing with only two midfield players, you cannot play with one player in risk of not being able to make a foul.

"You can do it if your team is not losing the ball, but our team was losing the ball so easy with the complication, everything was complicated, so we were losing lots of balls.

"Paul was out because of the yellow card, because in terms of the way he played, he was not worse than some others that were on the pitch for 90 minutes."

 
&nbsp

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion. United suffered a shock 1-0 home loss to West Brom on Sunday, handing the title to Manchester City, and Mourinho said his team were the "masters of complication". They next visit Bournemouth on Wednesday before facing Spurs at Wembley. Asked if he would rotate his players for the midweek league game on the south coast, Mourinho indicated that some of those who played against West Brom would feature again at Bournemouth because they had lost their place&nbspfor the semi-final. "Rotating is not the right word," he was quoted as saying by The Independent. "If I play a player against Bournemouth and the player is phenomenal, he plays the semi-final. "So is not rotating, because rotating looks like a player plays against Bournemouth to give a rest to somebody that is going to play against Spurs in the semi-final. "So the word is not rotation, it is an opportunity for people, for some people, to play and to try to get a place in the team for Spurs. Some of the guys that played (on Sunday) don't have a place in that team." Asked to clarify if he meant those who performed badly against West Brom would not play against Tottenham, Mourinho said: "Yeah. What is the criteria for a manager to choose a team? I only know one criteria: (it) is the way you play. "Or do you want me to go for the price they cost, or their salary, or their beautiful face? The only way is to go with performance." Ander Herrera was substituted at halftime against West Brom, while fellow midfielder Paul Pogba came off in the 58th minute, but Mourinho said that a yellow card had also been a factor in the Frenchman's replacement. "It was not just him and he had a yellow card, so he was in a more difficult position than others," Mourinho said. "And playing with only two midfield players, you cannot play with one player in risk of not being able to make a foul. "You can do it if your team is not losing the ball, but our team was losing the ball so easy with the complication, everything was complicated, so we were losing lots of balls. "Paul was out because of the yellow card, because in terms of the way he played, he was not worse than some others that were on the pitch for 90 minutes."

Mourinho set to drop players for United's FA Cup semi-final

A week after an inspiring comeback win against Manchester City, Manchester United fell to a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford against bottom club West Bromwich Albion on Sunday and manager Jose Mourinho said such inconsistency needed to change if they were to challenge their neighbours next season.

The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points with five games remaining, and Mourinho immediately faced the question of whether he was confident his team could make a real challenge next year.

"I trust in my work, that is for sure, I have no reason not to trust. Eight titles are eight titles and three Premier Leagues are three Premier Leagues," he said.

"The last title was not 20 years ago it was three years ago. I know how to win, I believe in myself but I don't play," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager.

"In my experience you don't win titles with inconsistency, you win titles, of course with quality, without quality you have no chance, but you have to win titles with consistency at every level not just the performance level.

"The mental level, the day by day, everything must be consistent until the last day so one of the things we have to improve is consistency," he said.

Mourinho suggested his players might have over-reacted to the win against City at the Etihad.

"Probably because I won eight championships I was not on the moon with the victory against them because that doesn't make me feel super-happy. In my opinion it affected for sure some of the people that were too happy just with that," he said.

A 73rd-minute header from Jay Rodriguez after United had failed to defend a corner won the game for relegation-threatened West Brom and Mourinho said his team had not played the simple football he expects.

"We were masters in complication. Everything was complicated. We couldn't think fast, we couldn't play fast. Players didn't want to or didn't play simple. Everything was slow. Everyone was one more touch, one more trick, one more flick, one more turn.

"We always gave them the opportunity to be solid, compact, together with huge physical strong players, they always had time to organise themselves. When we had the ball, we wanted to run, dribble and everything was complicated," he said.

The Portuguese manager said that City deserved their title and he had offered them his congratulations after the derby win.

"I don't know if I was the first or second or third but I congratulated them face to face when I had chance to do it. I knew that sooner or later that would be and if I was in that position I would be very upset if someone said they won the title because Manchester United lost," he said.

"They won the title because they were the best team. They lost only two matches, that is why they were champions."

The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points

A week after an inspiring comeback win against Manchester City, Manchester United fell to a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford against bottom club West Bromwich Albion on Sunday and manager Jose Mourinho said such inconsistency needed to change if they were to challenge their neighbours next season. The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points with five games remaining, and Mourinho immediately faced the question of whether he was confident his team could make a real challenge next year. "I trust in my work, that is for sure, I have no reason not to trust. Eight titles are eight titles and three Premier Leagues are three Premier Leagues," he said. "The last title was not 20 years ago it was three years ago. I know how to win, I believe in myself but I don't play," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager. "In my experience you don't win titles with inconsistency, you win titles, of course with quality, without quality you have no chance, but you have to win titles with consistency at every level not just the performance level. "The mental level, the day by day, everything must be consistent until the last day so one of the things we have to improve is consistency," he said. Mourinho suggested his players might have over-reacted to the win against City at the Etihad. "Probably because I won eight championships I was not on the moon with the victory against them because that doesn't make me feel super-happy. In my opinion it affected for sure some of the people that were too happy just with that," he said. A 73rd-minute header from Jay Rodriguez after United had failed to defend a corner won the game for relegation-threatened West Brom and Mourinho said his team had not played the simple football he expects. "We were masters in complication. Everything was complicated. We couldn't think fast, we couldn't play fast. Players didn't want to or didn't play simple. Everything was slow. Everyone was one more touch, one more trick, one more flick, one more turn. "We always gave them the opportunity to be solid, compact, together with huge physical strong players, they always had time to organise themselves. When we had the ball, we wanted to run, dribble and everything was complicated," he said. The Portuguese manager said that City deserved their title and he had offered them his congratulations after the derby win. "I don't know if I was the first or second or third but I congratulated them face to face when I had chance to do it. I knew that sooner or later that would be and if I was in that position I would be very upset if someone said they won the title because Manchester United lost," he said. "They won the title because they were the best team. They lost only two matches, that is why they were champions."

EPL: Mourinho hits out at inconsistent and 'complicated' Manchester United

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard.

Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan.

"For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters.&nbsp

"I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost.

"But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism."

Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season.

"His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football."

United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain.

Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side.&nbsp

United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday. Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard. Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan. "For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters. "I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost. "But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism." Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season. "His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football." United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain. Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side. United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic departure a big loss for European soccer: Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has warned Manchester United&#39;s under-performing stars that they need to &quot;grow up&quot; in the wake of the team&#39;s tame exit from the Champions League.

The fall-out from United&#39;s shock failure in a 2-1 home defeat against Sevilla is still being felt at Old Trafford, with Mourinho launching an impassioned defence of his record during Friday&#39;s press conference ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final with Brighton.

United boss Mourinho admitted his players must learn to cope with the pressure of expectations, a problem that has become all the more apparent in the wake of Tuesday&#39;s European setback.

&quot;The fans have to be sad with being out and the players have to learn how to cope with that level of expectation and that level of pressure,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;They have to survive and when they survive they become stronger. An easy life, and the fans not upset, and no critics? That&#39;s not good.

&quot;If you want to make a real top team with top mentality, you need to grow up and the best way is to have this kind of feeling.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too.&quot;

Those players have been a major problem for Mourinho this season, especially in recent games when the form of Paul Pogba and new signing Alexis Sanchez have come in for criticism from pundits and supporters alike.

But Mourinho said losing to Sevilla was not the major surprise that many claimed, even though he had spoken of his ambition to reach this season&#39;s Champions League final.

And, tellingly, in his analysis of his players&#39; performances this season, only Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic were spared their manager&#39;s thinly-veiled criticism.

Go for the jugular

&quot;I also said we are not one of the top teams, not one of the favourites to win,&quot; Mourinho added.

&quot;I told you that with these words because I cannot tell you with different words while I am still in competition. I cannot be in competition, go there and say we have no chance.

&quot;It&#39;s the same thing. You cannot expect me to say, &#39;this and that player, they have to do better&#39;.

&quot;I prefer to say that Matic and Lukaku are performing at a high level from day one until the last match.

&quot;I cannot tell you the ones that are not performing. I cannot tell you before a Champions League match.

&quot;We went out to a side that&#39;s more successful than Manchester United in the last seven years in Europe.&nbsp;

&quot;We are out to a team that knocked out Atletico Madrid in two legs. We are knocked out by a team that is brilliant in their approach for many years, with their scouting system.&quot;

Despite his argument, Mourinho&#39;s relationship with his club&#39;s supporters is clearly at a difficult point after the events of midweek.

Mourinho conceded that, with free-spending Manchester City on course to win the title by a record margin, it will be difficult for United to challenge them in the short term.

&quot;We try but the reality is that some clubs, they were ready to win,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;One thing is to go for the jugular and another is to build a different process.&nbsp;

&quot;If the clubs that are in a better situation than us stop investing and we invest, we are side to side. If they keep investing the same or more than us, it&#39;s difficult. It&#39;s as simple as that.&nbsp;

&quot;So the fans, they read what people write, they listen what people say.

&quot;I used to call them idealists or idiots -- they can be both. In my dictionary, the dictionary of life, a person with a lot of ideas can be an ideologist or an idiot.

&quot;The people, they listen to the ideologists and they also listen to the idiots. That&#39;s life.&quot;

'I don't want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too,'says Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has warned Manchester United's under-performing stars that they need to "grow up" in the wake of the team's tame exit from the Champions League. The fall-out from United's shock failure in a 2-1 home defeat against Sevilla is still being felt at Old Trafford, with Mourinho launching an impassioned defence of his record during Friday's press conference ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final with Brighton. United boss Mourinho admitted his players must learn to cope with the pressure of expectations, a problem that has become all the more apparent in the wake of Tuesday's European setback. "The fans have to be sad with being out and the players have to learn how to cope with that level of expectation and that level of pressure," Mourinho said. "They have to survive and when they survive they become stronger. An easy life, and the fans not upset, and no critics? That's not good. "If you want to make a real top team with top mentality, you need to grow up and the best way is to have this kind of feeling. "I don't want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too." Those players have been a major problem for Mourinho this season, especially in recent games when the form of Paul Pogba and new signing Alexis Sanchez have come in for criticism from pundits and supporters alike. But Mourinho said losing to Sevilla was not the major surprise that many claimed, even though he had spoken of his ambition to reach this season's Champions League final. And, tellingly, in his analysis of his players' performances this season, only Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic were spared their manager's thinly-veiled criticism. Go for the jugular "I also said we are not one of the top teams, not one of the favourites to win," Mourinho added. "I told you that with these words because I cannot tell you with different words while I am still in competition. I cannot be in competition, go there and say we have no chance. "It's the same thing. You cannot expect me to say, 'this and that player, they have to do better'. "I prefer to say that Matic and Lukaku are performing at a high level from day one until the last match. "I cannot tell you the ones that are not performing. I cannot tell you before a Champions League match. "We went out to a side that's more successful than Manchester United in the last seven years in Europe. "We are out to a team that knocked out Atletico Madrid in two legs. We are knocked out by a team that is brilliant in their approach for many years, with their scouting system." Despite his argument, Mourinho's relationship with his club's supporters is clearly at a difficult point after the events of midweek. Mourinho conceded that, with free-spending Manchester City on course to win the title by a record margin, it will be difficult for United to challenge them in the short term. "We try but the reality is that some clubs, they were ready to win," he said. "One thing is to go for the jugular and another is to build a different process. "If the clubs that are in a better situation than us stop investing and we invest, we are side to side. If they keep investing the same or more than us, it's difficult. It's as simple as that. "So the fans, they read what people write, they listen what people say. "I used to call them idealists or idiots -- they can be both. In my dictionary, the dictionary of life, a person with a lot of ideas can be an ideologist or an idiot. "The people, they listen to the ideologists and they also listen to the idiots. That's life."

Jose Mourinho warns United's under-performing players

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Wissam Ben Yedder, the first substitute of the game for Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

Ben Yedder blasted the first goal in 74th minute to give a 1-0 lead to the team by hitting a beautiful grounded shot in the right corner.

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????????&nbsp;Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9B2g93qzr">pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973685148599406593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mourinho responded by throwing on Anthony Martial and Juan Mata, but their attacking edge was needed far earlier as Ben Yedder soon stretched the lead to solidify the victory in just after 2 minutes. The second goal was actually a poor defence by Manchester players when Ben Yedder&#39;s header baffled the United&#39;s goalkeeper De Gea.

Ben Yedder was substituted by Luis Muriel in the 72nd minute and made the difference for Sevilla.

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Sevilla hero Wissam Ben Yedder has scored 8 goals in 7 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> games this season. ???????????? <a href="https://t.co/vhBJozoGh1">pic.twitter.com/vhBJozoGh1</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973676470626344962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For Manchester, Romelu Lukaku tried to salvage the pride at Old Trafford by heading a magnificent goal in the 84th minute and grabbed a consolation for Jose Mourinho&#39;s under-par side but the 1-2 aggregate ousted The Red Devils from the 2018 Champions league.

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A disappointing night for Manchester United...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/wEvzDDLMl2">pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2</a>
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In a basic, boring and&nbsp;dull first half&nbsp;both the sides were creating chances but the intent of netting was lacking.&nbsp;

Manchester was close to taking a 1-0 lead but the sharp cut was dejected Sevilla goalkeeper, Sergio Rico.

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If ANYTHING pushed us to history at Old Trafford it&#39;s you ???? 
 
THANK YOU SEVILLISTAS ❤️❤️❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Gz5rqZkKl2">pic.twitter.com/Gz5rqZkKl2</a>
&mdash; Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/SevillaFC_ENG/status/973676567527329794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Though Sevilla had more chances than United and they completely outplayed Manchester United in the first half.

Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

&nbsp;

Sevilla reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years; The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Wissam Ben Yedder, the first substitute of the game for Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. Ben Yedder blasted the first goal in 74th minute to give a 1-0 lead to the team by hitting a beautiful grounded shot in the right corner. ???????? Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????#UCL pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × Mourinho responded by throwing on Anthony Martial and Juan Mata, but their attacking edge was needed far earlier as Ben Yedder soon stretched the lead to solidify the victory in just after 2 minutes. The second goal was actually a poor defence by Manchester players when Ben Yedder's header baffled the United's goalkeeper De Gea. Ben Yedder was substituted by Luis Muriel in the 72nd minute and made the difference for Sevilla. Sevilla hero Wissam Ben Yedder has scored 8 goals in 7 #UCL games this season. ???????????? pic.twitter.com/vhBJozoGh1 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × For Manchester, Romelu Lukaku tried to salvage the pride at Old Trafford by heading a magnificent goal in the 84th minute and grabbed a consolation for Jose Mourinho's under-par side but the 1-2 aggregate ousted The Red Devils from the 2018 Champions league. A disappointing night for Manchester United...#UCL pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × In a basic, boring and dull first half both the sides were creating chances but the intent of netting was lacking. Manchester was close to taking a 1-0 lead but the sharp cut was dejected Sevilla goalkeeper, Sergio Rico. If ANYTHING pushed us to history at Old Trafford it's you ???? THANK YOU SEVILLISTAS ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/Gz5rqZkKl2 — Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) March 13, 2018 × Though Sevilla had more chances than United and they completely outplayed Manchester United in the first half. Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

Champions League: Sevilla create history, boot out Manchester United

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out of the Champions League as Wissam Ben Yedder, the star striker of Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it was&nbsp;Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

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Jose Mourinho post match press conference... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mansev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mansev</a> <a href="https://t.co/v8vjPI3nmg">pic.twitter.com/v8vjPI3nmg</a>
&mdash; Mister Skillz ???????? (@ennyade66) <a href="https://twitter.com/ennyade66/status/973684001239158786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After the match, Jose Mourinho said, &quot;I don&#39;t want to make a drama of it, we don&#39;t have time for that. We have a match on Saturday.&quot;

&quot;We don&#39;t have time to be sad for more than 24 hours&quot;

He also said, &quot;That&#39;s not the end of the world. I sat in this chair twice in the Champions League and I knocked out Manchester United at home at Old Trafford.&quot;

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????????&nbsp;Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9B2g93qzr">pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973685148599406593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

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A disappointing night for Manchester United...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/wEvzDDLMl2">pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2</a>
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&nbsp;

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out of the Champions League as Wissam Ben Yedder, the star striker of Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. After a goalless first leg in Spain, it was Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Jose Mourinho post match press conference... #mansev pic.twitter.com/v8vjPI3nmg — Mister Skillz ???????? (@ennyade66) March 13, 2018 × After the match, Jose Mourinho said, "I don't want to make a drama of it, we don't have time for that. We have a match on Saturday." "We don't have time to be sad for more than 24 hours" He also said, "That's not the end of the world. I sat in this chair twice in the Champions League and I knocked out Manchester United at home at Old Trafford." ???????? Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????#UCL pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years. A disappointing night for Manchester United...#UCL pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 ×

'That's not end of world', says Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho

The Red Devils from Britain are set to face The White and Reds of Spain!

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United will meet Sevilla FC to carry forward the first leg clash which was tied 0-0 at the final whistle. United will welcome Sevilla to Old Trafford on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning&nbsp;for the decisive second leg of the last-16. The match will start at 1:15 am IST early Wednesday morning.

The winner of the game will enter the quarter-finals. Sevilla FC has a chance to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

On the other hand, If Manchester United losses then it will be Michael Carrick&#39;s last match in Champions League, as he announced his retirement.

Sevilla&#39;s Italian coach Vincenzo Montella said, &quot;This will be a game&nbsp;where it will be very complicated on the pitch.&quot;

&quot;We are up against a great opponent with great players, a great manager and a club with great history. We know we&#39;ll have to give our all and take the small moments in the game which fall our way to change the game. We are ready to do all of this, he further added&quot;

Manchester United:

The Red Devils manager has confirmed that Anthony Martial is fit to return as he was absent for previous two games.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba were seen training on Monday which is a good news for Manchester United.

Manchester will enter the game with a high as they have won three consecutive wins in the Premier League. They came from behind and leapfrogged Chelsea and Crystal Palace to reach the spot two.

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Good to see <a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyMartial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnthonyMartial</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Ibra_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ibra_Official</a> in training ahead of tomorrow&rsquo;s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> return leg. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/L0Mi4oLdJ6">pic.twitter.com/L0Mi4oLdJ6</a>
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Sevilla FC:

Currently, Sevilla is standing at number fifth position in LaLiga and are eleven points behind number four seated Valencia, hence, their hope of finishing as top four are very less.

Sevilla recently, shared a video on Twitter that says, &quot;We have already done incredible things&hellip;.Why not again?&quot;

Though, Sevilla is also not letting this go easily as they have one advantage of not losing any of the three fixtures they have played against English opposition this season.

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We have already done incredible things&hellip;.Why not again? ???????? 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vamosmisevilla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vamosmisevilla</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HHpqvGAlqX">pic.twitter.com/HHpqvGAlqX</a>
&mdash; Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/SevillaFC_ENG/status/973306059833204736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United tied 0-0 with Sevilla FC in the first leg. The second leg will be played at Old Trafford

The Red Devils from Britain are set to face The White and Reds of Spain! The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United will meet Sevilla FC to carry forward the first leg clash which was tied 0-0 at the final whistle. United will welcome Sevilla to Old Trafford on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning for the decisive second leg of the last-16. The match will start at 1:15 am IST early Wednesday morning. The winner of the game will enter the quarter-finals. Sevilla FC has a chance to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. On the other hand, If Manchester United losses then it will be Michael Carrick's last match in Champions League, as he announced his retirement. Sevilla's Italian coach Vincenzo Montella said, "This will be a game where it will be very complicated on the pitch." "We are up against a great opponent with great players, a great manager and a club with great history. We know we'll have to give our all and take the small moments in the game which fall our way to change the game. We are ready to do all of this, he further added" Manchester United: The Red Devils manager has confirmed that Anthony Martial is fit to return as he was absent for previous two games. Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba were seen training on Monday which is a good news for Manchester United. Manchester will enter the game with a high as they have won three consecutive wins in the Premier League. They came from behind and leapfrogged Chelsea and Crystal Palace to reach the spot two. Good to see @AnthonyMartial and @Ibra_Official in training ahead of tomorrow’s #UCL return leg. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/L0Mi4oLdJ6 — Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 12, 2018 × Sevilla FC: Currently, Sevilla is standing at number fifth position in LaLiga and are eleven points behind number four seated Valencia, hence, their hope of finishing as top four are very less. Sevilla recently, shared a video on Twitter that says, "We have already done incredible things….Why not again?" Though, Sevilla is also not letting this go easily as they have one advantage of not losing any of the three fixtures they have played against English opposition this season. We have already done incredible things….Why not again? ???????? #vamosmisevilla #UCL pic.twitter.com/HHpqvGAlqX — Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) March 12, 2018 ×

Champions League match preview: Manchester United take on Sevilla

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United&#39;s sparse use of Marcus Rashford.

Rashford scored twice in his first Premier League start of 2018 as United edged out Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday, but Mourinho still substituted the 20-year-old England forward 20 minutes from time as he looked to make the game safe.

&quot;It&#39;s a pity that the manager is Mourinho because normally he&#39;s an English player, you want to give him time and he can then make mistakes,&quot; De Boer told BT Sport.

&quot;But Mourinho is not like that. He wants to get results.&quot;

De Boer was sacked by Crystal Palace after just five games in charge in September having seen the London side fail to register a point or score a goal in his four Premier League games in charge.

&quot;I read some quote from the worst manager in the history of the Premier League, Frank de Boer,&quot; Mourinho said on the eve of his side&#39;s Champions League last 16, second leg with Sevilla.

&quot;Where he was saying it is not good for Marcus Rashford to have a coach like me because the most important thing for me is to win.

&quot;If he was coached by Frank, he would learn how to lose because he lost every game.&quot;

De Boer won four straight Dutch league titles as Ajax boss between 2011-2014.

Rashford&#39;s minutes have been limited since the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, but Mourinho insisted he was finding a balance between burning Rashford out and giving him enough experience.

&quot;Does he play every match from the start? No, of course not but he&#39;s a player we trust and I told him that before the Liverpool match,&quot; added Mourinho.

&quot;He had a good match and not just by scoring goals. Analysing a performance for me is more than number of goals or assists, and for me I&#39;m really happy with Marcus.&quot;

&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United's sparse use of Marcus Rashford

Jose Mourinho launched a stinging attack on Dutchman Frank de Boer on Monday after the former Crystal Palace coach criticised Manchester United's sparse use of Marcus Rashford. Rashford scored twice in his first Premier League start of 2018 as United edged out Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday, but Mourinho still substituted the 20-year-old England forward 20 minutes from time as he looked to make the game safe. "It's a pity that the manager is Mourinho because normally he's an English player, you want to give him time and he can then make mistakes," De Boer told BT Sport. "But Mourinho is not like that. He wants to get results." De Boer was sacked by Crystal Palace after just five games in charge in September having seen the London side fail to register a point or score a goal in his four Premier League games in charge. "I read some quote from the worst manager in the history of the Premier League, Frank de Boer," Mourinho said on the eve of his side's Champions League last 16, second leg with Sevilla. "Where he was saying it is not good for Marcus Rashford to have a coach like me because the most important thing for me is to win. "If he was coached by Frank, he would learn how to lose because he lost every game." De Boer won four straight Dutch league titles as Ajax boss between 2011-2014. Rashford's minutes have been limited since the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, but Mourinho insisted he was finding a balance between burning Rashford out and giving him enough experience. "Does he play every match from the start? No, of course not but he's a player we trust and I told him that before the Liverpool match," added Mourinho. "He had a good match and not just by scoring goals. Analysing a performance for me is more than number of goals or assists, and for me I'm really happy with Marcus."

Frank de Boer, worst manager in history of Premier League: Mourinho

&quot;Perfect result. I wouldn&#39;t go so far as saying it was a perfect performance.&quot;

&quot;In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win,&quot; United manager Jose Mourinho said after registering a 2-1 victory against arch-rivals Liverpool.

The reason behind &quot;perfect performance&quot; could be the secret notes that Mourinho was making during the first half of the match.

Yes, secret notes!!! The Portuguese manager of the &quot;red devils&quot; was spotted scribbling something in his notebook.

The language was so difficult to comprehend that now the Twitterati are coming up with all possible decoding tools to understand what Jose Mourinho was actually writing.

Here are some twitter reactions:

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Mourinho&lsquo;s note taking is paying dividend...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNLIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNLIV</a> <a href="https://t.co/oMTB3zJ2yF">pic.twitter.com/oMTB3zJ2yF</a>
&mdash; ONSIDEVIEW.COM (@theonsideview) <a href="https://twitter.com/theonsideview/status/972461237606010881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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???? Mourinho&#39;s notes reveal all <a href="https://t.co/QaCEMZIT9p">pic.twitter.com/QaCEMZIT9p</a>
&mdash; CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) <a href="https://twitter.com/caughtoffside/status/972468081971916800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jose Mourinho&rsquo;s notes ???? what does it say? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/munliv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#munliv</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qk76LWqhfm">pic.twitter.com/Qk76LWqhfm</a>
&mdash; 433 Formation (@433FormationX) <a href="https://twitter.com/433FormationX/status/972453020725211136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jose Mourinho taking notes from the game against Liverpool yesterday hahaha <a href="https://t.co/qXllul3cL2">pic.twitter.com/qXllul3cL2</a>
&mdash; Reece (@_RH67) <a href="https://twitter.com/_RH67/status/972653155342221312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mourinho taking notes like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNLIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNLIV</a> <a href="https://t.co/eYEahRIptY">pic.twitter.com/eYEahRIptY</a>
&mdash; ???? (@wowfulls_) <a href="https://twitter.com/wowfulls_/status/972455329257672705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table.

With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool.

&nbsp;

The Portuguese manager of the "red devils" was spotted scribbling something in his notebook

"Perfect result. I wouldn't go so far as saying it was a perfect performance." "In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win," United manager Jose Mourinho said after registering a 2-1 victory against arch-rivals Liverpool. The reason behind "perfect performance" could be the secret notes that Mourinho was making during the first half of the match. Yes, secret notes!!! The Portuguese manager of the "red devils" was spotted scribbling something in his notebook. The language was so difficult to comprehend that now the Twitterati are coming up with all possible decoding tools to understand what Jose Mourinho was actually writing. Here are some twitter reactions: Mourinho‘s note taking is paying dividend...#MUNLIV pic.twitter.com/oMTB3zJ2yF — ONSIDEVIEW.COM (@theonsideview) March 10, 2018 × ???? Mourinho's notes reveal all pic.twitter.com/QaCEMZIT9p — CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) March 10, 2018 × Jose Mourinho’s notes ???? what does it say? #munliv pic.twitter.com/Qk76LWqhfm — 433 Formation (@433FormationX) March 10, 2018 × Jose Mourinho taking notes from the game against Liverpool yesterday hahaha pic.twitter.com/qXllul3cL2 — Reece (@_RH67) March 11, 2018 × Mourinho taking notes like #MUNLIV pic.twitter.com/eYEahRIptY — ???? (@wowfulls_) March 10, 2018 × Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table. With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool.

Jose Mourinho's 'secret notes' goes viral

Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the &quot;wrong&quot; time.

Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League&#39;s best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate.

Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form.

&quot;What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market,&quot; said the Manchester United boss. &quot;That&#39;s why I don&#39;t like the winter market very much.

&quot;I think this was a chance that we didn&#39;t want to lose and we made. But we don&#39;t believe a lot in the winter market.

&quot;And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him.&quot;

Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba.

But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team.

&quot;No. That&#39;s something that we can develop and we&#39;re going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together,&quot; said the manager.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed.

&quot;He&#39;s fit and if he is trying too hard, that&#39;s great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things.&quot;

Sanchez&#39;s eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United&#39;s lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title.

Sanchez happy

But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez&#39;s United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy.

&quot;He&#39;s fine,&quot; said the United boss. &quot;He&#39;s happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he&#39;s a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn&#39;t be happier.&quot;

United&#39;s eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City.

And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs.

&quot;They have qualities and they have weaknesses,&quot; he said. &quot;We have qualities, and we have weaknesses.

&quot;And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team&#39;s weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things.

&quot;But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there.&quot;

Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form

Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the "wrong" time. Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League's best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate. Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form. "What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market," said the Manchester United boss. "That's why I don't like the winter market very much. "I think this was a chance that we didn't want to lose and we made. But we don't believe a lot in the winter market. "And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him." Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba. But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team. "No. That's something that we can develop and we're going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together," said the manager. "I don't consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed. "He's fit and if he is trying too hard, that's great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things." Sanchez's eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United's lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title. Sanchez happy But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez's United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy. "He's fine," said the United boss. "He's happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he's a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn't be happier." United's eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City. And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs. "They have qualities and they have weaknesses," he said. "We have qualities, and we have weaknesses. "And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team's weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things. "But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there."

Sanchez transferred to Manchester United at 'wrong' time: Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho revealed his expletive-filled half-time rant inspired Manchester United&#39;s dramatic 3-2 win over Crystal Palace.

Mourinho&#39;s side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic&#39;s blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time.

United trailed to goals from Andros Townsend and Patrick van Aanholt before Chris Smalling gave the visitors a lifeline.

Romelu Lukaku equalised with 14 minutes remaining, setting the stage for Serbia midfielder Matic to notch his first goal for United since his move from Chelsea last year.

Mourinho admitted he was furious with his players&#39; lethargic first-half performance and he tore into them while demanding they show more tactical discipline.

&quot;I cannot tell you half of the things I told my team at half-time because there would be lots of bleeping on television,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;There were a few strong words relating to their attitude and the intensity of the game.&nbsp;

&quot;What I can say was all about the tactical positioning. That second goal was a goal to show kids in academies around the country, to show that top players can concede silly goals.&nbsp;

&quot;David De Gea had to do better. He is the best, no doubt, but he had to do better.&nbsp;

&quot;But the intensity and character was fantastic. We got a bit of luck in the last minute but it was deserved.&nbsp;

&quot;The urgency in that last half hour was huge.&quot;&nbsp;

It was the first time United had come from 2-0 down to win a Premier League game since December 2013 at Hull.&nbsp;

After hitting back from a goal down to beat Chelsea last weekend, Mourinho insisted this was another demonstration that United have the spirit and desire to overcome perilous predicaments.&nbsp;

- Keep the faith -

&quot;We were losing to Chelsea last week, then we were losing away from home against a Palace team that needs points,&quot; he said.

&quot;It&#39;s very hard but we kept faith and belief.

&quot;I always believe we can win. I will be like that until my last day.&nbsp;

&quot;Some days more than others but after Smalling&#39;s goal, I always thought it was possible.&nbsp;

&quot;Matic scored amazing goals like this when he was with me at Chelsea, at Goodison Park, against Benfica.&quot;

United&#39;s stirring revival moved them back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League.&nbsp;

They trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 16 points, but Mourinho is more concerned with securing the top four finish that guarantees qualification for next season&#39;s Champions League.&nbsp;

&quot;We want to finish second, but it is huge pressure for us to finish in the top four. Now we have a little pillow,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Palace remain in the relegation zone, one point from safety, but Eagles boss Roy Hodgson urged his players not to let the heartbreaking defeat influence their fight for survival.&nbsp;

&quot;We took the game to Manchester United. If we had drawn the game - I don&#39;t think anyone, Jose included - would have said it was a scandal,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;We once again go away with no points and, like the game against Tottenham, I thought we deserved something.&nbsp;

&quot;But you always know the quality they possess and the strength and depth they have. They can cause problems.&nbsp;

&quot;Where we are in the table doesn&#39;t enter my mind. It would have been nice to have two more points, but we still would have been very much in a relegation battle.&nbsp;

&quot;It could well go down to the wire.&quot;

Mourinho's side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic's blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time

Jose Mourinho revealed his expletive-filled half-time rant inspired Manchester United's dramatic 3-2 win over Crystal Palace. Mourinho's side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic's blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time. United trailed to goals from Andros Townsend and Patrick van Aanholt before Chris Smalling gave the visitors a lifeline. Romelu Lukaku equalised with 14 minutes remaining, setting the stage for Serbia midfielder Matic to notch his first goal for United since his move from Chelsea last year. Mourinho admitted he was furious with his players' lethargic first-half performance and he tore into them while demanding they show more tactical discipline. "I cannot tell you half of the things I told my team at half-time because there would be lots of bleeping on television," Mourinho said. "There were a few strong words relating to their attitude and the intensity of the game. "What I can say was all about the tactical positioning. That second goal was a goal to show kids in academies around the country, to show that top players can concede silly goals. "David De Gea had to do better. He is the best, no doubt, but he had to do better. "But the intensity and character was fantastic. We got a bit of luck in the last minute but it was deserved. "The urgency in that last half hour was huge." It was the first time United had come from 2-0 down to win a Premier League game since December 2013 at Hull. After hitting back from a goal down to beat Chelsea last weekend, Mourinho insisted this was another demonstration that United have the spirit and desire to overcome perilous predicaments. - Keep the faith - "We were losing to Chelsea last week, then we were losing away from home against a Palace team that needs points," he said. "It's very hard but we kept faith and belief. "I always believe we can win. I will be like that until my last day. "Some days more than others but after Smalling's goal, I always thought it was possible. "Matic scored amazing goals like this when he was with me at Chelsea, at Goodison Park, against Benfica." United's stirring revival moved them back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League. They trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 16 points, but Mourinho is more concerned with securing the top four finish that guarantees qualification for next season's Champions League. "We want to finish second, but it is huge pressure for us to finish in the top four. Now we have a little pillow," he said. Palace remain in the relegation zone, one point from safety, but Eagles boss Roy Hodgson urged his players not to let the heartbreaking defeat influence their fight for survival. "We took the game to Manchester United. If we had drawn the game - I don't think anyone, Jose included - would have said it was a scandal," he said. "We once again go away with no points and, like the game against Tottenham, I thought we deserved something. "But you always know the quality they possess and the strength and depth they have. They can cause problems. "Where we are in the table doesn't enter my mind. It would have been nice to have two more points, but we still would have been very much in a relegation battle. "It could well go down to the wire."

Jose Mourinho hails 'luck' for dramatic win over Crystal Palace

Antonio Conte&#39;s press conference on Thursday was gatecrashed by an Italian comedian who attempted to give the Chelsea boss a Manchester United shirt signed by bitter rival Jose Mourinho.

Conte had already spoken of plans to rotate his team ahead of a demanding schedule in which they next play Barcelona, Manchester United and Manchester City when the comedian from Italia 1 satire Le Iene rose from his seat.

He spoke to Conte in Italian, showed him a video on a tablet -- United manager Mourinho&#39;s name could be heard via the video -- and then presented the shirt to him before it was refused and he was asked to leave.

When Conte saw the shirt he stopped smiling. Mourinho had signed it last month, unaware it featured Conte&#39;s name, when approached by comedians from the same programme in Manchester.

Conte and Mourinho have traded poisonous barbs this season, culminating in the pair saying they felt &quot;contempt&quot; for each other last month.

Conte remains without the injured Tiemoue Bakayoko, David Luiz and Ross Barkley for Friday&#39;s visit of Hull in the FA Cup fifth round and said he was preparing to make changes.

In response to Roy Keane, a one-time opponent with United while Conte played for Juventus, labelling his players &quot;unprofessional&quot;, Conte said: &quot;In every moment I have underlined the commitment of the players.

&quot;In this 18 months, we built a great mentality. In every training session I see great commitment and great behaviour. Under this aspect, I&#39;m very happy.&quot;

Friday&#39;s fixture is Hull&#39;s first since their midfielder Ryan Mason, 26, announced his retirement because of the fractured skull suffered in a challenge with Chelsea&#39;s Gary Cahill last year.

&quot;We are very sad for this bad news,&quot; added Conte, 48. &quot;He showed great strength to recover, to try to play again. It&#39;s a pity because to stop your career at such a young age, it&#39;s a pity.&quot;Prankster hands Conte signed Mourinho shirt 
&nbsp;

When Conte saw the shirt he stopped smiling. Mourinho had signed it last month, unaware it featured Conte's name, when approached by comedians from the same programme in Manchester.

Antonio Conte's press conference on Thursday was gatecrashed by an Italian comedian who attempted to give the Chelsea boss a Manchester United shirt signed by bitter rival Jose Mourinho. Conte had already spoken of plans to rotate his team ahead of a demanding schedule in which they next play Barcelona, Manchester United and Manchester City when the comedian from Italia 1 satire Le Iene rose from his seat. He spoke to Conte in Italian, showed him a video on a tablet -- United manager Mourinho's name could be heard via the video -- and then presented the shirt to him before it was refused and he was asked to leave. When Conte saw the shirt he stopped smiling. Mourinho had signed it last month, unaware it featured Conte's name, when approached by comedians from the same programme in Manchester. Conte and Mourinho have traded poisonous barbs this season, culminating in the pair saying they felt "contempt" for each other last month. Conte remains without the injured Tiemoue Bakayoko, David Luiz and Ross Barkley for Friday's visit of Hull in the FA Cup fifth round and said he was preparing to make changes. In response to Roy Keane, a one-time opponent with United while Conte played for Juventus, labelling his players "unprofessional", Conte said: "In every moment I have underlined the commitment of the players. "In this 18 months, we built a great mentality. In every training session I see great commitment and great behaviour. Under this aspect, I'm very happy." Friday's fixture is Hull's first since their midfielder Ryan Mason, 26, announced his retirement because of the fractured skull suffered in a challenge with Chelsea's Gary Cahill last year. "We are very sad for this bad news," added Conte, 48. "He showed great strength to recover, to try to play again. It's a pity because to stop your career at such a young age, it's a pity."Prankster hands Conte signed Mourinho shirt

Prankster hands Conte signed Mourinho shirt

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team would not concede defeat in the Premier League title race if they were in the same position as Manchester United.

United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left.

Asked ahead of City&#39;s trip to seventh-placed Burnley on Saturday if he would give up on Mourinho&#39;s position, Guardiola said: &quot;No, I don&#39;t think so. That is not going to happen.

&quot;We have shown even in our two defeats this season that we will try until the very end. We play every game to give sense to what we are doing. I know the 15-point distance is quite big at the moment. It&#39;s the same gap from six games ago.

&quot;In football and in sports anything can happen. You are good today but tomorrow you are bad. The most important thing we have done is the focus. In my experience, until everything is done, you have to be prepared for anything to happen.&quot;

City has endured a hectic season having progressed to the Champions League last 16, the FA Cup fifth round and the League Cup final apart from dominating the league and Guardiola said he would rest his players following the Burnley game.

&quot;After the game against Burnley until next Wednesday the players will be resting,&quot; Guardiola added.

&quot;The players can do whatever they want, they can travel or whatever. If they want to go and find some sunshine or stay here in Manchester, they can do what they like. They are free.&quot;

&nbsp;

United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team would not concede defeat in the Premier League title race if they were in the same position as Manchester United. United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left. Asked ahead of City's trip to seventh-placed Burnley on Saturday if he would give up on Mourinho's position, Guardiola said: "No, I don't think so. That is not going to happen. "We have shown even in our two defeats this season that we will try until the very end. We play every game to give sense to what we are doing. I know the 15-point distance is quite big at the moment. It's the same gap from six games ago. "In football and in sports anything can happen. You are good today but tomorrow you are bad. The most important thing we have done is the focus. In my experience, until everything is done, you have to be prepared for anything to happen." City has endured a hectic season having progressed to the Champions League last 16, the FA Cup fifth round and the League Cup final apart from dominating the league and Guardiola said he would rest his players following the Burnley game. "After the game against Burnley until next Wednesday the players will be resting," Guardiola added. "The players can do whatever they want, they can travel or whatever. If they want to go and find some sunshine or stay here in Manchester, they can do what they like. They are free."

'I won't concede title if in Man United's position' says Pep Guardiola

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho&#39;s face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley.

Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park.

Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season.

Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute.

The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances.

It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them &quot;childish&quot; and &quot;immature&quot; and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City.

United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period.

&quot;Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn&#39;t a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction.&quot;

United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow.

With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool&#39;s &#39;Fab Four&#39; to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor.

Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season.

Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home.

But Liverpool&#39;s Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range.

Liverpool&#39;s third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four.

&quot;A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don&#39;t care. We got the three points.&quot;

Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle.

Stoke&#39;s latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday&#39;s 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move.

Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range.

That triggered chants for Hughes&#39;s dismissal from Stoke fans, with a &#39;Hughes out&#39; banner held aloft in the stands.

Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone.

High standards

Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: &quot;Who else is going to do it?

&quot;In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I&#39;m the best person to do it.&quot;

Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester&#39;s 3-0 win over Huddersfield.

Claude Puel&#39;s side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton&#39;s cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season.

With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute.

Albrighton&#39;s 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run.

Callum Wilson&#39;s second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.&nbsp;

Manchester United beat Everton 2-0, Liverpool beat Burnley 2-1

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho's face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley. Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park. Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season. Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute. The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances. It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them "childish" and "immature" and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City. United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period. "Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn't a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar," Mourinho said. "Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction." United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow. With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool's 'Fab Four' to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor. Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season. Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home. But Liverpool's Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range. Liverpool's third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four. "A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy," Klopp said. "This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don't care. We got the three points." Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle. Stoke's latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move. Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range. That triggered chants for Hughes's dismissal from Stoke fans, with a 'Hughes out' banner held aloft in the stands. Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone. High standards Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: "Who else is going to do it? "In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I'm the best person to do it." Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester's 3-0 win over Huddersfield. Claude Puel's side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton's cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season. With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute. Albrighton's 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run. Callum Wilson's second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.

EPL roundup: United lift Mourinho, Liverpool leave it late

Jose Mourinho has lambasted former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes after he criticised the manager and key players in his role as a TV pundit.

Scholes singled out Paul Pogba, the club&#39;s record signing, after his anonymous performance in the weekend draw with Southampton.

But the French international was far more impressive in the 2-0 victory at Everton on New Year&#39;s Day, which ended a run of three consecutive United draws and put the Red Devils 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City.

The victory allowed Mourinho to launch a remarkable verbal attack on Scholes, one of the storied &quot;Class of 92&quot; who was a key part of some of the greatest successes in United&#39;s history.

&quot;I think the only thing Paul Scholes does is criticise,&quot; said Mourinho. &quot;I don&#39;t think he comments, I think he criticises, which is a different thing.

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&quot;Not every one of us has to be phenomenal like he was as a player. That does not mean that we all have to be phenomenal.&quot;

Scholes accused Pogba of coasting through games and failing to make the sort of impact his &pound;89 million ($120 million) transfer fee demands.

But Mourinho was clearly in the mood to defend his player and claimed that part of Scholes&#39; attitude was fuelled by jealousy.

&quot;Paul tries to do his best all the time,&quot; he said. &quot;Sometimes he plays very well, sometimes he plays well, sometimes he doesn&#39;t play so well.&nbsp;

&quot;It&#39;s not Paul&#39;s fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It&#39;s just the way football is.&nbsp;

&quot;I think Scholes will be in history as a phenomenal player, not as a pundit. I prefer to look at him as a phenomenal player that gave so much to the club that I am proud to represent.&quot;

The United manager, who won at Goodison thanks to superb goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard, both of which were set up by Pogba, also believes that Scholes has a desire to break into management.

The former United player recently claimed that his application for a job managing United&rsquo;s under-23 team was turned down by the club&#39;s management.

&quot;If Paul one day decides to be a manager I wish that he can be 25 percent as successful as myself,&quot; said Mourinho.&nbsp;

&quot;50 percent of that is 12.5 silverware, 25 percent is around six. If he&#39;s 25 percent, he&#39;ll be quite happy.&quot;

Mourinho did round off his criticism by adding that he believed Scholes was &quot;a phenomenal player&quot; and called him &quot;one of the best I&#39;ve ever seen playing in midfield&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;The prestige of this club is based on people like him, so successful here,&quot; he said.

&#39;Kings of rock and roll&#39; 
Scholes is the latest of the &quot;Class of 92&quot; to have voiced criticism of United under Mourinho, after Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville also made uncomplimentary comments - a point not lost on Mourinho who described them as &quot;the kings of rock and roll.&quot;

He said: &quot;I think the performance was really good so maybe I am lucky this time - and the kings of rock and roll who say I was under-performing last match say, this time, I performed.

&quot;I think they would love to be here. They would love to be at the club and that&#39;s a problem I cannot resolve.&quot;

Giggs was an assistant to previous United manager Louis Van Gaal.

Mourinho also revealed that Romelu Lukaku, who was stretchered off early in the draw with Southampton, did not suffer a concussion and will be available for selection for United&#39;s FA Cup tie with Derby on Friday.

Arsene Wenger made a similar criticism of former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry on Sunday, saying &quot;I don&#39;t listen to what he says&quot; after the Frenchman claimed the Arsenal squad was riven by divisions over the attitude of Chilean star Alexis Sanchez.

Scholes criticised both Mourinho and key players in his role as TV pundit. The former Manchester United played especially singled out Paul Pogba

Jose Mourinho has lambasted former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes after he criticised the manager and key players in his role as a TV pundit. Scholes singled out Paul Pogba, the club's record signing, after his anonymous performance in the weekend draw with Southampton. But the French international was far more impressive in the 2-0 victory at Everton on New Year's Day, which ended a run of three consecutive United draws and put the Red Devils 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City. The victory allowed Mourinho to launch a remarkable verbal attack on Scholes, one of the storied "Class of 92" who was a key part of some of the greatest successes in United's history. "I think the only thing Paul Scholes does is criticise," said Mourinho. "I don't think he comments, I think he criticises, which is a different thing. It's not Paul's fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It's just the way football is,' said Mouringo × "Not every one of us has to be phenomenal like he was as a player. That does not mean that we all have to be phenomenal." Scholes accused Pogba of coasting through games and failing to make the sort of impact his £89 million ($120 million) transfer fee demands. But Mourinho was clearly in the mood to defend his player and claimed that part of Scholes' attitude was fuelled by jealousy. "Paul tries to do his best all the time," he said. "Sometimes he plays very well, sometimes he plays well, sometimes he doesn't play so well. "It's not Paul's fault that he made much more money than Paul Scholes. It's just the way football is. "I think Scholes will be in history as a phenomenal player, not as a pundit. I prefer to look at him as a phenomenal player that gave so much to the club that I am proud to represent." The United manager, who won at Goodison thanks to superb goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard, both of which were set up by Pogba, also believes that Scholes has a desire to break into management. The former United player recently claimed that his application for a job managing United’s under-23 team was turned down by the club's management. "If Paul one day decides to be a manager I wish that he can be 25 percent as successful as myself," said Mourinho. "50 percent of that is 12.5 silverware, 25 percent is around six. If he's 25 percent, he'll be quite happy." Mourinho did round off his criticism by adding that he believed Scholes was "a phenomenal player" and called him "one of the best I've ever seen playing in midfield". "The prestige of this club is based on people like him, so successful here," he said. 'Kings of rock and roll' Scholes is the latest of the "Class of 92" to have voiced criticism of United under Mourinho, after Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville also made uncomplimentary comments - a point not lost on Mourinho who described them as "the kings of rock and roll." He said: "I think the performance was really good so maybe I am lucky this time - and the kings of rock and roll who say I was under-performing last match say, this time, I performed. "I think they would love to be here. They would love to be at the club and that's a problem I cannot resolve." Giggs was an assistant to previous United manager Louis Van Gaal. Mourinho also revealed that Romelu Lukaku, who was stretchered off early in the draw with Southampton, did not suffer a concussion and will be available for selection for United's FA Cup tie with Derby on Friday. Arsene Wenger made a similar criticism of former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry on Sunday, saying "I don't listen to what he says" after the Frenchman claimed the Arsenal squad was riven by divisions over the attitude of Chilean star Alexis Sanchez.

Mourinho lashes out at 'critical' Scholes

Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City.&nbsp;United was already trailing in City&#39;s wake, but Harry Maguire&#39;s 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth.

Mourinho&#39;s side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players&#39; finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise.&nbsp;&quot;It is as bad as a defeat&quot;, said Mourinho. &quot;Sometimes you take a point and you say &#39;OK&#39; and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result.&nbsp;

&quot;That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily.&nbsp;&quot;On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs&#39; hands and crosses.

&quot;We couldn&#39;t defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas.&nbsp;&quot;There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk&quot;, said Mourinho.&nbsp;

&quot;For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn&#39;t so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. &quot;It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack&quot;.

Childish decisions

Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs.&nbsp;&quot;Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career&quot;, he said.

&quot;You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don&#39;t learn&quot;.&nbsp;Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes.&nbsp;Foxes manager Claude Puel said: &quot;He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better.&nbsp;

&quot;He&#39;s a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game.&nbsp;&quot;It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession&quot;, said Puel.

&quot;In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey.&nbsp;&quot;It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end&quot;.

'It is as bad as a defeat,' said Mourinho

Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City. United was already trailing in City's wake, but Harry Maguire's 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth. Mourinho's side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players' finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise. "It is as bad as a defeat", said Mourinho. "Sometimes you take a point and you say 'OK' and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result. "That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily. "On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs' hands and crosses. "We couldn't defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas. "There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk", said Mourinho. "For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn't so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. "It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack". Childish decisions Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs. "Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career", he said. "You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don't learn". Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes. Foxes manager Claude Puel said: "He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better. "He's a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game. "It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession", said Puel. "In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey. "It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end".

Mourinho lashes United after Leicester draw

Fabian Delph and Ashley Young are not two names that, at the start of this season, would have been high on many lists of key players for the Manchester derby but with the wide areas likely to be a major battleground in Sunday&#39;s Premier League clash their roles will be vital.

Delph, a midfielder throughout his career, was forced into left-wingback duty when first choice Benjamin Mendy suffered a knee ligament injury in September and the 28-year-old has handled the new position with aplomb.

Young, who has been converted to fullback duty after making his name as a winger, has made the United left-back slot his own with impressive performances this season earning him a recall to the England squad at the age of 32 after a four-year absence.

With Antonio Valencia on the right flank, United have been able to develop a counter-attacking style down the flanks, allied to their attacking wide players such as Anthony Martial.

City&#39;s formation is similar, with Kyle Walker advancing with pace down the right, in alliance with Raheem Sterling, while Delph provides wide support to Leroy Sane on the opposite side.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s side often push their fullbacks so far forward that is questionable whether they can be considered defenders in any real sense.

The Spanish coach is aware that against United&#39;s counter-attack his team will need to be alert to the spaces in the wide areas that Jose Mourinho&#39;s side will look to exploit.

&quot;You have to defend these areas, definitely. With fullbacks, attacking midfielders or holding midfielders or wingers, you have to close that space,&quot; said Guardiola.

&quot;The teams from Jose Mourinho -- Chelsea, Real Madrid and here, they are the masters of that. When you lose the ball they are going to immediately counter-attack with Lukaku or make movements behind our full backs with Martial, (Marcus) Rashford or (Jesse) Lingard.

&quot;You know if you are not well organised they punish you in one action and win the game,&quot; he said.

&quot;They have the potential to run 30 metres and create problems. That space beside our centre-backs and behind our fullbacks is the space we have to be careful about, definitely,&quot; he added.

Guardiola, though, is not ready to sacrifice the attacking potency of Walker, a close-season signing from Tottenham.

&quot;It depends on the players and if you have the energy of Kyle Walker, you have to attack with him,&quot; said Guardiola.

League leaders Manchester City take on second-placed Manchester United tonight at 10 pm

Fabian Delph and Ashley Young are not two names that, at the start of this season, would have been high on many lists of key players for the Manchester derby but with the wide areas likely to be a major battleground in Sunday's Premier League clash their roles will be vital. Delph, a midfielder throughout his career, was forced into left-wingback duty when first choice Benjamin Mendy suffered a knee ligament injury in September and the 28-year-old has handled the new position with aplomb. Young, who has been converted to fullback duty after making his name as a winger, has made the United left-back slot his own with impressive performances this season earning him a recall to the England squad at the age of 32 after a four-year absence. With Antonio Valencia on the right flank, United have been able to develop a counter-attacking style down the flanks, allied to their attacking wide players such as Anthony Martial. City's formation is similar, with Kyle Walker advancing with pace down the right, in alliance with Raheem Sterling, while Delph provides wide support to Leroy Sane on the opposite side. Pep Guardiola's side often push their fullbacks so far forward that is questionable whether they can be considered defenders in any real sense. The Spanish coach is aware that against United's counter-attack his team will need to be alert to the spaces in the wide areas that Jose Mourinho's side will look to exploit. "You have to defend these areas, definitely. With fullbacks, attacking midfielders or holding midfielders or wingers, you have to close that space," said Guardiola. "The teams from Jose Mourinho -- Chelsea, Real Madrid and here, they are the masters of that. When you lose the ball they are going to immediately counter-attack with Lukaku or make movements behind our full backs with Martial, (Marcus) Rashford or (Jesse) Lingard. "You know if you are not well organised they punish you in one action and win the game," he said. "They have the potential to run 30 metres and create problems. That space beside our centre-backs and behind our fullbacks is the space we have to be careful about, definitely," he added. Guardiola, though, is not ready to sacrifice the attacking potency of Walker, a close-season signing from Tottenham. "It depends on the players and if you have the energy of Kyle Walker, you have to attack with him," said Guardiola.

Young and Delph unlikely key men for Manchester derby

The 175th Manchester derby pits a United side unbeaten in 40 home games in all competitions against a City side who have not lost this season in the Premier League.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s City currently lead by eight points from United in the standings, giving the game much more significance than just local pride.

Here are five big issues that will go a long way to determining the outcome of Sunday&#39;s clash at Old Trafford:

Will Mourinho &#39;park the bus&#39; at home?&nbsp;

United manager Jose Mourinho received plenty of criticism for the negative way his team approached rivals Liverpool at Anfield in October&#39;s goalless draw.

But defending in numbers and attacking on the break is also an approach that can work well for United. Relying on the counter-attack certainly paid off handsomely in the 3-1 win at Arsenal last Saturday, even if United keeper David de Gea had to make a string of saves to keep his side in front.

United are at home, but given City&#39;s ability to dominate possession, the game may, tactically at least, be more like an away match for Mourinho&#39;s team.

City have produced more passes than any other team in the league this season while United are ranked seventh in that area and it would be no surprise if Guardiola&#39;s side enjoy most of the ball.

In recent weeks, United have switched to playing with a three-man defence which allows Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young to attack down the flanks - an attacking formation which matches that of City.

But the loss to suspension of central midfielder Paul Pogba may tempt Mourinho into a more defensive line-up in the centre of the field as he looks to counter the influence of City&#39;s key creative midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.

Who will dominate the flanks?

City are great at keeping the ball in the tight spaces in midfield and United, with Serbian enforcer Nemanja Matic expected to be fit, will look to crowd the centre of the park and give De Bruyne and David Silva little room to exploit.

But the key areas are likely to be out wide where City have the speed and skill of Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling allied with the threat from their wing-backs - Kyle Walker on the right and Fabian Delph on the left.

United match-up well in that area - Valencia was brilliant going forward against Arsenal and can work up and down the right tirelessly, while Young on the left has been one of the biggest positive surprises of the campaign so far for Mourinho.

Anthony Martial, or if preferred Marcus Rashford, have a tendency to play much wider than the typical support striker and that might limit Walker&#39;s desire to push forward, lest he leave space behind for United to exploit. If Juan Mata is chosen to replace Pogba, he could offer another wide threat on the right.

Whichever wingers and wing-backs come out on top is going to have a huge impact on the outcome.

Can United stop De Bruyne?

The stats tell the story. No-one has had more touches of the ball this season in the Premier League than the Belgian. De Bruyne also shares, with team mate David Silva, the most assists with eight so far.

Brilliant with both feet and capable of running at a defence from deep and also delivering the killer pass to City&#39;s deadly strike force, De Bruyne has been fundamental to the success of Guardiola&#39;s team.

United have in Matic, however, a player who could certainly do a close-marking job but that would rob Mourinho of the Serb&#39;s overall role of marshalling the midfield and protecting the defence. It could be a job for Ander Herrera or Marouane Fellaini.

Will Lukaku deliver when it matters most?

The former Everton forward scored 11 goals in his first 10 appearances for United but has managed just two in his last 12 and while Zlatan Ibrahimovic is fit, Mourinho is unlikely to drop his main striker for the derby.

The big trouble with Romelu Lukaku is that he has struggled throughout his career when facing the top teams. He failed to score against Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool this year and since 2014/15 he has only scored five goals in 39 games against the &#39;big six&#39;.

The Belgian could put all those doubts to bed with a winner against City. But if he misses chances, Mourinho may well turn to the fit-again Swedish great on his bench.

Pep Guardiola's City currently lead by eight points from United in the standings, giving the game much more significance than just local pride.

The 175th Manchester derby pits a United side unbeaten in 40 home games in all competitions against a City side who have not lost this season in the Premier League. Pep Guardiola's City currently lead by eight points from United in the standings, giving the game much more significance than just local pride. Here are five big issues that will go a long way to determining the outcome of Sunday's clash at Old Trafford: Will Mourinho 'park the bus' at home? United manager Jose Mourinho received plenty of criticism for the negative way his team approached rivals Liverpool at Anfield in October's goalless draw. But defending in numbers and attacking on the break is also an approach that can work well for United. Relying on the counter-attack certainly paid off handsomely in the 3-1 win at Arsenal last Saturday, even if United keeper David de Gea had to make a string of saves to keep his side in front. United are at home, but given City's ability to dominate possession, the game may, tactically at least, be more like an away match for Mourinho's team. City have produced more passes than any other team in the league this season while United are ranked seventh in that area and it would be no surprise if Guardiola's side enjoy most of the ball. In recent weeks, United have switched to playing with a three-man defence which allows Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young to attack down the flanks - an attacking formation which matches that of City. But the loss to suspension of central midfielder Paul Pogba may tempt Mourinho into a more defensive line-up in the centre of the field as he looks to counter the influence of City's key creative midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. Who will dominate the flanks? City are great at keeping the ball in the tight spaces in midfield and United, with Serbian enforcer Nemanja Matic expected to be fit, will look to crowd the centre of the park and give De Bruyne and David Silva little room to exploit. But the key areas are likely to be out wide where City have the speed and skill of Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling allied with the threat from their wing-backs - Kyle Walker on the right and Fabian Delph on the left. United match-up well in that area - Valencia was brilliant going forward against Arsenal and can work up and down the right tirelessly, while Young on the left has been one of the biggest positive surprises of the campaign so far for Mourinho. Anthony Martial, or if preferred Marcus Rashford, have a tendency to play much wider than the typical support striker and that might limit Walker's desire to push forward, lest he leave space behind for United to exploit. If Juan Mata is chosen to replace Pogba, he could offer another wide threat on the right. Whichever wingers and wing-backs come out on top is going to have a huge impact on the outcome. Can United stop De Bruyne? The stats tell the story. No-one has had more touches of the ball this season in the Premier League than the Belgian. De Bruyne also shares, with team mate David Silva, the most assists with eight so far. Brilliant with both feet and capable of running at a defence from deep and also delivering the killer pass to City's deadly strike force, De Bruyne has been fundamental to the success of Guardiola's team. United have in Matic, however, a player who could certainly do a close-marking job but that would rob Mourinho of the Serb's overall role of marshalling the midfield and protecting the defence. It could be a job for Ander Herrera or Marouane Fellaini. Will Lukaku deliver when it matters most? The former Everton forward scored 11 goals in his first 10 appearances for United but has managed just two in his last 12 and while Zlatan Ibrahimovic is fit, Mourinho is unlikely to drop his main striker for the derby. The big trouble with Romelu Lukaku is that he has struggled throughout his career when facing the top teams. He failed to score against Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool this year and since 2014/15 he has only scored five goals in 39 games against the 'big six'. The Belgian could put all those doubts to bed with a winner against City. But if he misses chances, Mourinho may well turn to the fit-again Swedish great on his bench.

Football: Four big questions ahead of the Manchester derby

&nbsp;Jose Mourinho returns to his old club Chelsea on Sunday with his Manchester United trailing leaders Manchester City by five points and the challenge against the champions will be a major indicator of his team&#39;s ability to close the gap.

When City visited Stamford Bridge at the end of September they delivered a statement performance in their 1-0 win, answering many of the doubts about whether they had the defensive soundness to go with their undoubted attacking flair.

It was a win - and performance - which suggested that City are capable of playing the kind of tight, disciplined tactical performance that had been lacking at times during Pep Guardiola&#39;s first season at the club.

United face some different questions in what is their toughest test yet away from home.

Mourinho&#39;s side were given a gentle start to the season by the fixtures computer with modest opposition for their opening seven games and they took advantage with 21 goals and six wins along with plenty of entertaining football.

But in their first challenge against one of the &#39;big six&#39;, at Liverpool, United went into their shell - clearly under instructions to not allow Juergen Klopp&#39;s side space and to limit their own forward movement.

Debate has raged about whether or not that was an appropriate approach to take at Anfield or whether United should have been more adventurous and tried to exploit the vulnerabilities in Liverpool&#39;s back line.

Mourinho typically dismissed such talk, viewing the draw as a point gained. But a defeat at Huddersfield in his team&#39;s next game added to the sense that United&#39;s early season momentum had been lost.

Last week, though, United came through another test - beating Tottenham 1-0 at Old Trafford and a 2-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League in midweek has helped to dispel any talk of United losing their way.

But the challenge against the champions on Sunday is for United to show that they can replicate the confident and businesslike win that City showed a month ago.

Fragile Chelsea

United won&#39;t want to let City, who host Arsenal on Sunday, open up a seven or eight-point lead and a defeat would allow Chelsea to move within a point of Mourinho&#39;s men.

To get three points from their trip to West London, United need to combine the defensive solidity they showed on Merseyside with the ability to carve open Antonio Conte&#39;s back line.

Judging by Chelsea&#39;s woeful 3-0 loss to Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday, United can have some confidence that it will be fruitful to take the game to Conte&#39;s team.

A repeat of last season&#39;s 4-0 mauling in this fixture certainly looks unlikely and Chelsea&#39;s defence, so solid last season, looks far more fragile.

United will need Romelu Lukaku, who Chelsea wanted to re-sign before his move to Old Trafford in the close-season, to get back to the form he showed before his six-game barren streak.

They will also need his support striker, whether that be Frenchman Anthony Martial or Marcus Rashford, to work closer to him than in the draw with Liverpool where Martial wandered in deep positions leaving the Belgian isolated.

At Anfield, United&#39;s midfield sat deep and rarely advanced in numbers. Whatever permutation Mourinho sends out to do battle on Sunday will need to be braver in committing to forward positions or countering in numbers.

It is a balancing act, of course, as Chelsea possess in Eden Hazard in particular, the means to punish opponents who over-commit.

But City showed that perfect balance and if United want to replicate their rivals, they too will need to show a willingness to do more than just frustrate.

When City visited Stamford Bridge at the end of September they delivered a statement performance in their 1-0 win, answering many of the doubts about whether they had the defensive soundness to go with their undoubted attacking flair.

Jose Mourinho returns to his old club Chelsea on Sunday with his Manchester United trailing leaders Manchester City by five points and the challenge against the champions will be a major indicator of his team's ability to close the gap. When City visited Stamford Bridge at the end of September they delivered a statement performance in their 1-0 win, answering many of the doubts about whether they had the defensive soundness to go with their undoubted attacking flair. It was a win - and performance - which suggested that City are capable of playing the kind of tight, disciplined tactical performance that had been lacking at times during Pep Guardiola's first season at the club. United face some different questions in what is their toughest test yet away from home. Mourinho's side were given a gentle start to the season by the fixtures computer with modest opposition for their opening seven games and they took advantage with 21 goals and six wins along with plenty of entertaining football. But in their first challenge against one of the 'big six', at Liverpool, United went into their shell - clearly under instructions to not allow Juergen Klopp's side space and to limit their own forward movement. Debate has raged about whether or not that was an appropriate approach to take at Anfield or whether United should have been more adventurous and tried to exploit the vulnerabilities in Liverpool's back line. Mourinho typically dismissed such talk, viewing the draw as a point gained. But a defeat at Huddersfield in his team's next game added to the sense that United's early season momentum had been lost. Last week, though, United came through another test - beating Tottenham 1-0 at Old Trafford and a 2-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League in midweek has helped to dispel any talk of United losing their way. But the challenge against the champions on Sunday is for United to show that they can replicate the confident and businesslike win that City showed a month ago. Fragile Chelsea United won't want to let City, who host Arsenal on Sunday, open up a seven or eight-point lead and a defeat would allow Chelsea to move within a point of Mourinho's men. To get three points from their trip to West London, United need to combine the defensive solidity they showed on Merseyside with the ability to carve open Antonio Conte's back line. Judging by Chelsea's woeful 3-0 loss to Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday, United can have some confidence that it will be fruitful to take the game to Conte's team. A repeat of last season's 4-0 mauling in this fixture certainly looks unlikely and Chelsea's defence, so solid last season, looks far more fragile. United will need Romelu Lukaku, who Chelsea wanted to re-sign before his move to Old Trafford in the close-season, to get back to the form he showed before his six-game barren streak. They will also need his support striker, whether that be Frenchman Anthony Martial or Marcus Rashford, to work closer to him than in the draw with Liverpool where Martial wandered in deep positions leaving the Belgian isolated. At Anfield, United's midfield sat deep and rarely advanced in numbers. Whatever permutation Mourinho sends out to do battle on Sunday will need to be braver in committing to forward positions or countering in numbers. It is a balancing act, of course, as Chelsea possess in Eden Hazard in particular, the means to punish opponents who over-commit. But City showed that perfect balance and if United want to replicate their rivals, they too will need to show a willingness to do more than just frustrate.

Manchester City set the standard for United at Chelsea

Manchester United fans would be ill-advised to start dreaming about the Premier League title just yet but they will be heartened by another vintage performance in a 4-0 rout of Swansea on Saturday which showcased their attacking firepower.

Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man.

&quot;I think the team is confident and in both matches winning 1-0 at halftime, we didn&#39;t start the second half looking like we had to keep a clean sheet to win the match,&quot; he said.

&quot;We tried to control the game by keeping the ball and creating chances and we did that in both matches,&quot; he added.

&quot;The players that came on from the bench did well. Easy for me to make decisions, easy for me to make changes. The players make the manager look better and I thank their fantastic attitude because we know we have to have a squad to do something special this season.&quot;

Midfield anchorman Nemanja Matic bossed the centre of the pitch, allowing a rejuvenated Paul Pogba to venture forward and score his second goal in two games while striker Romelu Lukaku netted his third after selfless work throughout the match.

Henrik Mkhitaryan and substitute Anthony Martial, who again scored as a late substitute, also continued to thrive.

&quot;We are more confident (than last season),&quot; Pogba told Sky Sports.

&quot;We know each other more. We work for each other and I think that is easier for us. We want to carry on on this road.&quot;

Mkhitaryan spoke about United&#39;s passion and team spirit, factors which have been lacking for long spells since the departure of manager Alex Ferguson in 2013 when United won their 20th and last league title.

Cracks in last season&#39;s disappointing sixth-place finish were papered over by winning the League Cup and the Europa League, the latter allowing United to qualify for the Champions League group stage.

Mourinho signed Matic, Lukaku and Sweden defender Victor Lindelof, who is yet to make his Premier League debut as Phil Jones forced his way into the starting 11 with good pre-season form.

United now have the squad depth they have lacked in the past four years and although their credentials are yet to be tested against stronger rivals, former Wales striker John Hartson believes they will be a different prospect this season.

&quot;Clearly the opposition will get tougher for Manchester United,&quot; Hartson told the BBC.

&quot;But in terms of the first two games they&#39;ve been faultless. In that three or four minute spell where they took the game away from Swansea, they were devastating.&quot;

Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man

Manchester United fans would be ill-advised to start dreaming about the Premier League title just yet but they will be heartened by another vintage performance in a 4-0 rout of Swansea on Saturday which showcased their attacking firepower. Following the opening day mauling of West Ham by the same score, United manager Jose Mourinho was a happy man. "I think the team is confident and in both matches winning 1-0 at halftime, we didn't start the second half looking like we had to keep a clean sheet to win the match," he said. "We tried to control the game by keeping the ball and creating chances and we did that in both matches," he added. "The players that came on from the bench did well. Easy for me to make decisions, easy for me to make changes. The players make the manager look better and I thank their fantastic attitude because we know we have to have a squad to do something special this season." Midfield anchorman Nemanja Matic bossed the centre of the pitch, allowing a rejuvenated Paul Pogba to venture forward and score his second goal in two games while striker Romelu Lukaku netted his third after selfless work throughout the match. Henrik Mkhitaryan and substitute Anthony Martial, who again scored as a late substitute, also continued to thrive. "We are more confident (than last season)," Pogba told Sky Sports. "We know each other more. We work for each other and I think that is easier for us. We want to carry on on this road." Mkhitaryan spoke about United's passion and team spirit, factors which have been lacking for long spells since the departure of manager Alex Ferguson in 2013 when United won their 20th and last league title. Cracks in last season's disappointing sixth-place finish were papered over by winning the League Cup and the Europa League, the latter allowing United to qualify for the Champions League group stage. Mourinho signed Matic, Lukaku and Sweden defender Victor Lindelof, who is yet to make his Premier League debut as Phil Jones forced his way into the starting 11 with good pre-season form. United now have the squad depth they have lacked in the past four years and although their credentials are yet to be tested against stronger rivals, former Wales striker John Hartson believes they will be a different prospect this season. "Clearly the opposition will get tougher for Manchester United," Hartson told the BBC. "But in terms of the first two games they've been faultless. In that three or four minute spell where they took the game away from Swansea, they were devastating."

Premier League: Manchester United crushes Swansea 4-0

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has sent a message in the direction of UEFA Super Cup opponents Real Madrid by declaring his readiness to bring Gareth Bale to Old Trafford.

Speaking to reporters in the Macedonian capital of Skopje on Monday, Mourinho said he would wait to see what Bale&#39;s role in Tuesday&#39;s match was before deciding whether the Welshman was worth pursuing.

&quot;If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won&#39;t even think about it,&quot; said Mourinho of the 28-year-old.

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&quot;If he is not in the club&#39;s plans and it is true that a player like Bale is at the departure gate, I will try to be there waiting for him at the other side.

&quot;But if he plays tomorrow it is the clearest signal that he is staying there.&quot;

Bale moved to the Spanish capital from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 for a then world record fee of 100.8 million euros.

However, injuries restricted his involvement during last season&#39;s run-in and he was only a substitute in Real&#39;s 4-1 Champions League final win over Juventus in Cardiff.

He has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu with Real among the clubs fighting for the signature of Monaco forward Kylian Mbappe.

The French teenager has been linked with a 180 million-euro ($212 million, &pound;163 million) transfer although Manchester City are also keen and Paris Saint-Germain are believed to want him to play alongside their world record recruit Neymar.

United have already splashed out close to &pound;150 million in this transfer window on three players -- Swedish defender Victor Lindelof from Benfica, Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic from Chelsea and Everton striker Romelu Lukaku.

Matic is the most recent arrival and Mourinho admitted he is unlikely to have more than a limited role in Tuesday&#39;s game at the Philip II Arena, which pitches last season&#39;s Europa League winners United against the reigning European champions.

Mourinho also confirmed that, while Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young are on the sidelines, Tim Fosu-Mensah did not travel to the Balkans with the squad because he is set to seal a loan move away from the club.

Eric Bailly is still suspended in Europe following his red card in the Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo in May and fellow defender Phil Jones is banned too.

His suspension is the result of a run-in with an anti-doping official after United&#39;s Europa League final win over Ajax in Stockholm at the end of last season.

&quot;I was expecting that the appeal would be negative,&quot; said Mourinho, who is preparing to come up against the club he coached for three years before leaving in 2013.

&quot;The only thing I hope is that tomorrow, the team that wins, if some team wants to celebrate, a player wants to get his medal, enjoy with his teammates, I just expect that the doping committee sends somebody with him and doesn&#39;t close him in a room and forbid the guy to enjoy a special moment.&quot;

Jones was given a two-game suspension for insulting an official and was fined 5,000 euros after staying on the pitch to celebrate his team&#39;s win rather than going straight to a doping control.&nbsp;

Mourinho's Manchester United will play Real Madrid -- Bale's team -- in the Eufa Super Cup final early Wednesday morning

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has sent a message in the direction of UEFA Super Cup opponents Real Madrid by declaring his readiness to bring Gareth Bale to Old Trafford. Speaking to reporters in the Macedonian capital of Skopje on Monday, Mourinho said he would wait to see what Bale's role in Tuesday's match was before deciding whether the Welshman was worth pursuing. "If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won't even think about it," said Mourinho of the 28-year-old. If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won't even think about it,' Mourinho said of the 28-year-old × "If he is not in the club's plans and it is true that a player like Bale is at the departure gate, I will try to be there waiting for him at the other side. "But if he plays tomorrow it is the clearest signal that he is staying there." Bale moved to the Spanish capital from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 for a then world record fee of 100.8 million euros. However, injuries restricted his involvement during last season's run-in and he was only a substitute in Real's 4-1 Champions League final win over Juventus in Cardiff. He has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu with Real among the clubs fighting for the signature of Monaco forward Kylian Mbappe. The French teenager has been linked with a 180 million-euro ($212 million, £163 million) transfer although Manchester City are also keen and Paris Saint-Germain are believed to want him to play alongside their world record recruit Neymar. United have already splashed out close to £150 million in this transfer window on three players -- Swedish defender Victor Lindelof from Benfica, Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic from Chelsea and Everton striker Romelu Lukaku. Matic is the most recent arrival and Mourinho admitted he is unlikely to have more than a limited role in Tuesday's game at the Philip II Arena, which pitches last season's Europa League winners United against the reigning European champions. Mourinho also confirmed that, while Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young are on the sidelines, Tim Fosu-Mensah did not travel to the Balkans with the squad because he is set to seal a loan move away from the club. Eric Bailly is still suspended in Europe following his red card in the Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo in May and fellow defender Phil Jones is banned too. His suspension is the result of a run-in with an anti-doping official after United's Europa League final win over Ajax in Stockholm at the end of last season. "I was expecting that the appeal would be negative," said Mourinho, who is preparing to come up against the club he coached for three years before leaving in 2013. "The only thing I hope is that tomorrow, the team that wins, if some team wants to celebrate, a player wants to get his medal, enjoy with his teammates, I just expect that the doping committee sends somebody with him and doesn't close him in a room and forbid the guy to enjoy a special moment." Jones was given a two-game suspension for insulting an official and was fined 5,000 euros after staying on the pitch to celebrate his team's win rather than going straight to a doping control.

Mourinho ready to make move for Bale

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League&#39;s unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season&#39;s Champions League.

With nothing riding on Sunday&#39;s game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day.

&quot;In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn&#39;t matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe,&quot; the United manager told reporters after Wednesday&#39;s 0-0 draw at Southampton.

&quot;So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday.

&quot;In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It&#39;s going to be Sunday. It&#39;s frustrating for me. And I hope you don&#39;t kill me when you see my team.&quot;

Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: &quot;I don&#39;t lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don&#39;t fight the battle.

&quot;You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I&#39;m here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions.

&quot;I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw.&nbsp;

&quot;So I think it&#39;s just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is.&quot;

The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini.

Big Sam plea

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira.

Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United&#39;s last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley.

&quot;I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us.&quot;

Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday.

Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring.

The result at St Mary&#39;s was United&#39;s 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season.

But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth.

Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation.

&quot;I try to stay focused about our last game now,&quot; said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday.

&quot;After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It&#39;s important to focus on our last game.&quot;

(AFP)

Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira

Jose Mourinho says the Premier League's unwillingness to help Manchester United prepare for their Europa League final will force him to pick youth players against Crystal Palace on Sunday. United finish their league campaign against Palace at Old Trafford before facing Ajax in the Europa League final in Stockholm next Wednesday, a game they must win to qualify for next season's Champions League. With nothing riding on Sunday's game for either United or Palace, who are assured of avoiding relegation, Mourinho believes it should have been moved forward a day. "In any country in the world, the match would be Saturday because Sunday, we are sixth, doesn't matter what, and Crystal Palace is safe," the United manager told reporters after Wednesday's 0-0 draw at Southampton. "So I think after the moment Crystal Palace beat Hull City and Hull City is relegated, and Swansea is safe, I think in that moment, the match has to be Saturday. "In any country in the world, it would be Saturday. It's going to be Sunday. It's frustrating for me. And I hope you don't kill me when you see my team." Asked if he had submitted a request for the game to be moved, Mourinho replied: "I don't lose time. When I know that the battle is lost, I don't fight the battle. "You (journalists) are English, you are here since you were born. I'm here already, four plus three, seven years. I never saw any detail of trying to care about the English teams involved in European competitions. "I never saw that with Chelsea, I never saw that with Manchester United, with (Champions League semi-finalists) Manchester City last year. I never saw. "So I think it's just a lost battle. We have to accept the way it is." The United manager has confirmed Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final and the Argentina goalkeeper seized a chance to shine at Southampton, plunging to his right to save a sixth-minute penalty from Manolo Gabbiadini. Big Sam plea Rather than restore his usual number one, David de Gea, to his starting XI against Palace, Mourinho said he would hand a league debut to 20-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Joel Pereira. Mourinho said Axel Tuanzebe, who has started United's last three league games, would be involved, along with his fellow academy graduates Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay, Matty Willock, Josh Harrop and Zachary Dearnley. "I hope the fans at Old Trafford support the team, they forgive some naivety, they forgive some lack of confidence," Mourinho said. "And I hope that Big Sam (Allardyce, the Palace manager) shows he is a good friend and he goes slow. He tells (Wilfried) Zaha to go slow, he leaves (Christian) Benteke at home. I hope he goes soft on us." Mourinho also said centre-back Eric Bailly, who is suspended for the final, would feature, as well as Paul Pogba, who has been granted compassionate leave following the death of his father last Friday. Marouane Fellaini came off rubbing the back of his right thigh against Southampton, but Mourinho said the Belgian midfielder was confident he had not torn his hamstring. The result at St Mary's was United's 15th draw of a frustrating league season and means they are guaranteed to register their lowest number of wins in a campaign since the 1990-91 season. But United were already guaranteed to finish sixth, while Southampton, who have not scored in four successive top-flight home games for the first time, remain eighth. Southampton manager Claude Puel refused to discuss his future at the club, which is the subject of speculation. "I try to stay focused about our last game now," said the Frenchman, whose side finish their campaign at home to Stoke City on Sunday. "After the season we have time to discuss and speak about this and make a debrief. It's important to focus on our last game." (AFP)

Football: 'Don't kill me' for playing kids, begs Mourinho

Jose Mourinho said &quot;enemies&quot; were undermining his team after Paul Pogba was injured in a 1-0 victory over FC Rostov that sent Manchester United into the Europa League quarter-finals.

Pogba, who turned 24 on Wednesday, hobbled off with a hamstring injury early in the second half of Thursday&#39;s 1-0 win, which completed a 2-1 aggregate last 16 success.

United had previously played on Monday, losing 1-0 at Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-finals after going down to 10 men, and travel to Middlesbrough in the Premier League on Sunday.

In an apparent reference to United&#39;s domestic fixture schedulers, Mourinho complained: &quot;We have lots of enemies. Normally the enemies should be Rostov, but we have a lot of enemies.

&quot;It&#39;s difficult to play Monday with 10 men. It&#39;s difficult to play now. It&#39;s difficult to play 12 o&#39;clock on Sunday. We have a lot of enemies.&quot;

Mourinho said Pogba would be out for around three weeks, ruling him out of the trip to Middlesbrough and France&#39;s forthcoming games against Luxembourg and Spain.

Asked if Pogba would be out for around three weeks, Mourinho replied: &quot;Yeah. I don&#39;t know for sure, but for sure, no Middlesbrough and no national team.&quot;

Warming to his theme, Mourinho suggested the compression of matches meant United were likely to lose at struggling Middlesbrough, who on Thursday sacked his former Real Madrid assistant Aitor Karanka.

&quot;A lot of people might say we should have scored more goals. But a lot of things are going against us,&quot; he told BT Sport at Old Trafford.

&quot;The boys are amazing boys. We will probably lose the game on Sunday. Fatigue has a price. I will remember forever when I spoke to the UEFA delegate in Rostov.

&quot;He told me if any of our players gets injured, the insurance paid. Whoever decided the Monday and Sunday games probably thinks the same way.&quot;

Banana baton

In a curious scene, Mourinho was seen relaying a banana to Argentine centre-back Marcos Rojo during the second half, which the United manager said was an attempt to combat fatigue.

&quot;If you were tired any time in your life, I was tired many times, I know what the body needs,&quot; said the Portuguese.

&quot;It needs anything. The player asked for a banana. But it&#39;s not to laugh at all. It&#39;s to respect the players.&quot;

France star Pogba departed in the 47th minute after pulling up as he chased an opponent towards the halfway line, with Marouane Fellaini taking his place.

United prevailed on the night thanks to a 70th-minute goal by Juan Mata, who finished from close range after Zlatan Ibrahimovic had flicked Henrikh Mkhitaryan&#39;s cross towards goal.

United, who have never previously won the Europa League, will discover their quarter-final opponents in Friday&#39;s draw.

Russian club Rostov came close to taking the game to extra time late on, with United goalkeeper Sergio Romero obliged to save from substitute Aleksandr Bukharov and Christian Noboa.

&quot;It&#39;s another historic game for us,&quot; said beaten manager Ivan Daniliants, whose side had never previously gone so far in European competition.

&quot;We played against one of the best teams in the world. They were obviously stronger, but we fought until the end. We&#39;re thankful to our fans for their support.&quot;

(AFP)

In an apparent reference to United's domestic fixture schedulers, Mourinho complained: 'We have lots of enemies'

Jose Mourinho said "enemies" were undermining his team after Paul Pogba was injured in a 1-0 victory over FC Rostov that sent Manchester United into the Europa League quarter-finals. Pogba, who turned 24 on Wednesday, hobbled off with a hamstring injury early in the second half of Thursday's 1-0 win, which completed a 2-1 aggregate last 16 success. United had previously played on Monday, losing 1-0 at Chelsea in the FA Cup quarter-finals after going down to 10 men, and travel to Middlesbrough in the Premier League on Sunday. In an apparent reference to United's domestic fixture schedulers, Mourinho complained: "We have lots of enemies. Normally the enemies should be Rostov, but we have a lot of enemies. "It's difficult to play Monday with 10 men. It's difficult to play now. It's difficult to play 12 o'clock on Sunday. We have a lot of enemies." Mourinho said Pogba would be out for around three weeks, ruling him out of the trip to Middlesbrough and France's forthcoming games against Luxembourg and Spain. Asked if Pogba would be out for around three weeks, Mourinho replied: "Yeah. I don't know for sure, but for sure, no Middlesbrough and no national team." Warming to his theme, Mourinho suggested the compression of matches meant United were likely to lose at struggling Middlesbrough, who on Thursday sacked his former Real Madrid assistant Aitor Karanka. "A lot of people might say we should have scored more goals. But a lot of things are going against us," he told BT Sport at Old Trafford. "The boys are amazing boys. We will probably lose the game on Sunday. Fatigue has a price. I will remember forever when I spoke to the UEFA delegate in Rostov. "He told me if any of our players gets injured, the insurance paid. Whoever decided the Monday and Sunday games probably thinks the same way." Banana baton In a curious scene, Mourinho was seen relaying a banana to Argentine centre-back Marcos Rojo during the second half, which the United manager said was an attempt to combat fatigue. "If you were tired any time in your life, I was tired many times, I know what the body needs," said the Portuguese. "It needs anything. The player asked for a banana. But it's not to laugh at all. It's to respect the players." France star Pogba departed in the 47th minute after pulling up as he chased an opponent towards the halfway line, with Marouane Fellaini taking his place. United prevailed on the night thanks to a 70th-minute goal by Juan Mata, who finished from close range after Zlatan Ibrahimovic had flicked Henrikh Mkhitaryan's cross towards goal. United, who have never previously won the Europa League, will discover their quarter-final opponents in Friday's draw. Russian club Rostov came close to taking the game to extra time late on, with United goalkeeper Sergio Romero obliged to save from substitute Aleksandr Bukharov and Christian Noboa. "It's another historic game for us," said beaten manager Ivan Daniliants, whose side had never previously gone so far in European competition. "We played against one of the best teams in the world. They were obviously stronger, but we fought until the end. We're thankful to our fans for their support." (AFP)

After Pogba's injury, Mourinho says 'enemies' undermining his team

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday&#39;s 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. 
 
The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. 
 
Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. 
 
United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea&#39;s Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off.

(Reuters) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday's 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea's Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off. (Reuters)

Manchester United charged with failing to control players after FA Cup loss to Chelsea

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday.

N&#39;Golo Kante&#39;s fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte&#39;s double-chasing side to break United&#39;s resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard.

Runaway Premier League leaders&#39; Chelsea&#39;s reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City.

United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot.

While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October&#39;s&nbsp;Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea&#39;s fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte.

Mourinho&#39;s frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera&#39;s sending off.

Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest.

Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois.

Livewire hazard

Much was made of United&#39;s lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho&#39;s somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford.

That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot.

United&#39;s keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic&#39;s low shot from the resulting corner.

Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands.

After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again.

When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte.

&quot;You&#39;re not special anymore,&quot; Chelsea&#39;s fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera&#39;s red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini.

United camped deep in Chelsea&#39;s half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. 
 
(Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Conte got the better of Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat Manchester United 1-0

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday. N'Golo Kante's fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte's double-chasing side to break United's resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard. Runaway Premier League leaders' Chelsea's reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City. United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot. While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October's Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea's fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte. Mourinho's frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera's sending off. Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest. Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois. Livewire hazard Much was made of United's lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho's somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford. That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot. United's keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic's low shot from the resulting corner. Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands. After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again. When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte. "You're not special anymore," Chelsea's fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera's red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini. United camped deep in Chelsea's half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. (Reuters)

Chelsea beat Manchester United to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho played down the touchline confrontation that flared up between him and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp near the end of Sunday&#39;s Premier League draw. As both teams looked for a late winner in an increasingly tense match at Old Trafford, the rival managers squared up to each other but Mourinho reckoned after shaking Klopp&#39;s hand at the end of the game that there was no problem between them.

The incident occurred when United midfielder Ander Herrera pulled the shirt of Liverpool&#39;s Roberto Firmino, then fell to the floor holding his face after actually being pushed by the Brazilian in the chest. Klopp seemed to feel Mourinho was calling for Firmino to be sent off and the German evidently felt Herrera was feigning injury. The two managers then had a heated argument, Klopp getting particularly animated, as the fourth official separated them.

Asked if there had been a problem with Klopp, Mourinho told reporters: &quot;No. He thought I was asking for his player to be sent off. I wasn&#39;t. No problem at all. I think the game was correct, I think the players gave everything in an emotional way, professional way. I think the referee Michael Oliver managed very well that part of the game,&quot; Mourinho felt. &quot;I think the game was great publicity for the Premier League all around the world,&quot; he gushed.

The game ended in a tense 1-1 draw.

(Reuters)

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had a heated touchline row with Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp during the premier league clash

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho played down the touchline confrontation that flared up between him and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp near the end of Sunday's Premier League draw. As both teams looked for a late winner in an increasingly tense match at Old Trafford, the rival managers squared up to each other but Mourinho reckoned after shaking Klopp's hand at the end of the game that there was no problem between them. The incident occurred when United midfielder Ander Herrera pulled the shirt of Liverpool's Roberto Firmino, then fell to the floor holding his face after actually being pushed by the Brazilian in the chest. Klopp seemed to feel Mourinho was calling for Firmino to be sent off and the German evidently felt Herrera was feigning injury. The two managers then had a heated argument, Klopp getting particularly animated, as the fourth official separated them. Asked if there had been a problem with Klopp, Mourinho told reporters: "No. He thought I was asking for his player to be sent off. I wasn't. No problem at all. I think the game was correct, I think the players gave everything in an emotional way, professional way. I think the referee Michael Oliver managed very well that part of the game," Mourinho felt. "I think the game was great publicity for the Premier League all around the world," he gushed. The game ended in a tense 1-1 draw. (Reuters)

Mourinho downplays Klopp confrontation

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