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..::Football IV::..
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Liverpool 0-0 Manchester United: Mourinho’s men frustrate Reds
Liverpool and Manchester United played out a goalless draw at Anfield on Monday as Jurgen Klopp’s men missed the chance to move level on points at the top of the Premier League table.
Jose Mourinho's side had won the last four league matches against their fierce north west rivals but were forced to settle for a solitary point in a tense encounter that failed to live up to the huge pre-match hype.
No team can better Liverpool's 73 Premier League goals since the arrival of Jurgen Klopp last October, but their swashbuckling attack was kept firmly in check by a United defence superbly screened by Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini.
Chances were almost non-existent in the first half, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic spurned the best opening of the first hour when he contrived to head Paul Pogba's curling cross away from the Liverpool goal.
David de Gea saved superbly to deny Emre Can as Liverpool continued to do most of the attacking work, with the introduction of fit-again Adam Lallana from the bench adding renewed impetus to their approach, and the Spain number one clawed a thunderous Philippe Coutinho strike away from the top corner 10 minutes later.
Substitute Wayne Rooney entered the fray for the final 13 minutes but the out-of-favour United captain could not repeat his winner in the same fixture last season, as a packed Anfield - in which there seemed to be no repeat of the unsavoury chanting about which both clubs had warned their fans - was forced to settle for a stalemate.
United enjoyed the better of a tense opening 15 minutes, though Ibrahimovic and Pogba blazed well over the crossbar with their first two meaningful efforts on goal.
Loris Karius reacted well to push a devilish Marcus Rashford cross away from the path of Ibrahimovic, before Roberto Firmino spurned a decent chance for Liverpool by heading straight at De Gea just before the half-hour mark.
Liverpool regained a degree of composure and enjoyed the majority of possession late in the half, but United's disciplined rearguard restricted the hosts to two shots on goal - their joint-lowest tally in the first half of a home league game since 2003-04.
Karius almost gifted United the lead just after the break when he passed straight to Pogba 18 yards out, but the assistant referee's flag rescued the 23-year-old just as Ibrahimovic was about to pounce.
But the former Sweden captain had nobody to blame after 54 minutes when he headed Pogba's fine deep delivery across the six-yard box and to safety with the goal seemingly at his mercy.
Liverpool at last found a way through the United defence when Joel Matip played in Can, but De Gea sprung low to his right to deny the Germany international after he struck a low shot towards the bottom corner.
Coutinho was denied a stunning winner from 30 yards when De Gea leapt to his left to palm the Brazilian's dipping shot past the post - a save that even drew applause from Klopp on the touchline - but there was to be no late winner at either end.
The result takes Liverpool to within two points of league leaders Manchester City, while United are three further back in seventh place.
De Gea!
De Gea nisa thamai match 1ka berune
nathnam 2-0 thamai.
& Manchester United full defensiveanemanda attacking nam godak madine
De Gea nisa thamai match 1ka berune
nathnam 2-0 thamai.& Manchester United full defensive
anemanda attacking nam godak madine
Icardi punished but appears set to stay as Inter captain
Inter striker Mauro Icardi appears set to stay on as captain after issuing a further apology for his criticism of the club's supporters.
Icardi infuriated sections of the Curva Nord ultras after a passage in his new autobiography suggested he had made himself a "hero" by standing up to one of the group's leaders.
The 23-year-old claimed he had argued with the fan following Inter's 3-1 loss to Sassuolo last season, after his shirt - which he attempted to give to a member of the crowd - was thrown back at him.
Banners were displayed during Inter's 2-1 loss to Cagliari on Sunday claiming Icardi's career with the club was "finished", while sections of the supporters cheered when he missed a penalty.
Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio had suggested that Icardi could be stripped of the captaincy in the wake of the controversy but, although he has been sanctioned by the club, it would seem that he has retained the armband.
An Inter statement read: "Following a meeting this morning between management and Mauro Icardi, FC Internazionale announces that the captain will be sanctioned for contravening the club's internal regulations as signed by every player."Though the details of his punishment were not confirmed, Icardi says he and the club are determined to put "this sorry incident behind us".
He also stated that he would seek to have his autobiography amended to remove any pages that left fans feeling "offended, betrayed or threatened"."The last couple of days have been a sad period in my time with the Nerazzurri.Yet within a family - and I've always been taught that Inter is first and foremost one big family - tough times and misunderstandings happen.
"It all stemmed from a page of my book which was probably written in haste; a page where some of the tone wasn't appropriate and I'm really sorry that the Inter fans got caught up in all this.
"This has offended a lot of people but you always need to look forward and, if possible, do everything in your power to get things back to normal.
"That's why I'd like to apologise and I will make efforts to have those pages removed to avoid anyone feeling offended, betrayed or threatened."I've spoken to the club and we've put this sorry incident behind us and we all have one aim. We want the best for Inter because nothing is bigger than this club.
"That's why I've accepted all of the club's decisions. I will try to be more careful in future, something required of my role within the team. Now, more united than ever, we can prepare for our upcoming commitments with the utmost determination."
Icardi also uploaded a matchday picture on his official Instagram page, in which his captain's armband is clearly visible, captioned with the words "I'll never leave her alone".
Inter striker Mauro Icardi appears set to stay on as captain after issuing a further apology for his criticism of the club's supporters.
Icardi infuriated sections of the Curva Nord ultras after a passage in his new autobiography suggested he had made himself a "hero" by standing up to one of the group's leaders.
The 23-year-old claimed he had argued with the fan following Inter's 3-1 loss to Sassuolo last season, after his shirt - which he attempted to give to a member of the crowd - was thrown back at him.
Banners were displayed during Inter's 2-1 loss to Cagliari on Sunday claiming Icardi's career with the club was "finished", while sections of the supporters cheered when he missed a penalty.
Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio had suggested that Icardi could be stripped of the captaincy in the wake of the controversy but, although he has been sanctioned by the club, it would seem that he has retained the armband.
An Inter statement read: "Following a meeting this morning between management and Mauro Icardi, FC Internazionale announces that the captain will be sanctioned for contravening the club's internal regulations as signed by every player."Though the details of his punishment were not confirmed, Icardi says he and the club are determined to put "this sorry incident behind us".
He also stated that he would seek to have his autobiography amended to remove any pages that left fans feeling "offended, betrayed or threatened"."The last couple of days have been a sad period in my time with the Nerazzurri.Yet within a family - and I've always been taught that Inter is first and foremost one big family - tough times and misunderstandings happen.
"It all stemmed from a page of my book which was probably written in haste; a page where some of the tone wasn't appropriate and I'm really sorry that the Inter fans got caught up in all this.
"This has offended a lot of people but you always need to look forward and, if possible, do everything in your power to get things back to normal.
"That's why I'd like to apologise and I will make efforts to have those pages removed to avoid anyone feeling offended, betrayed or threatened."I've spoken to the club and we've put this sorry incident behind us and we all have one aim. We want the best for Inter because nothing is bigger than this club.
"That's why I've accepted all of the club's decisions. I will try to be more careful in future, something required of my role within the team. Now, more united than ever, we can prepare for our upcoming commitments with the utmost determination."
Icardi also uploaded a matchday picture on his official Instagram page, in which his captain's armband is clearly visible, captioned with the words "I'll never leave her alone".
Monaco will do everything to beat 'aggressive' CSKA - Jardim
Leonardo Jardim insists Monaco are not taking the threat of CSKA Moscow lightly as they prepare to play in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Group E leaders Monaco travel to Russia with hosts CSKA sitting bottom of the pile on only one point, but head coach Jardim does not think there is a significant gulf in class.
CSKA are without Roman Eremenko and the injured Alan Dzagoev, although the Ligue 1 side are also missing key players - injured trio Radamel Falcao, Nabil Dirar and Almamy Toure.
Jardim's men can move six points clear of CSKA with a victory, but that is not something the visitors are taking for granted.
"We are expecting a tough game and expect that CSKA will play aggressively but also in a dynamic way," Jardim said at his pre-match media conference."We will do everything to win the three points and give a good image of Monaco in Russia. "We have only had two days to prepare but I am sure we will do that.
"The loss of Roman Eremenko and Alan Dzagoev is of course a blow for CSKA, but as far as I know, they have a good team and their head coach will find some alternatives.
"They are the champions of Russia with many Russian internationals. They managed to finish above Zenit St Petersburg, who we know are a very good team.
"Two months ago during the draw, everyone said we had been drawn in an even group. I see now that this is definitely the case and every match has been close so far. This group is balanced, with four quality teams.
Leonardo Jardim insists Monaco are not taking the threat of CSKA Moscow lightly as they prepare to play in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Group E leaders Monaco travel to Russia with hosts CSKA sitting bottom of the pile on only one point, but head coach Jardim does not think there is a significant gulf in class.
CSKA are without Roman Eremenko and the injured Alan Dzagoev, although the Ligue 1 side are also missing key players - injured trio Radamel Falcao, Nabil Dirar and Almamy Toure.
Jardim's men can move six points clear of CSKA with a victory, but that is not something the visitors are taking for granted.
"We are expecting a tough game and expect that CSKA will play aggressively but also in a dynamic way," Jardim said at his pre-match media conference."We will do everything to win the three points and give a good image of Monaco in Russia. "We have only had two days to prepare but I am sure we will do that.
"The loss of Roman Eremenko and Alan Dzagoev is of course a blow for CSKA, but as far as I know, they have a good team and their head coach will find some alternatives.
"They are the champions of Russia with many Russian internationals. They managed to finish above Zenit St Petersburg, who we know are a very good team.
"Two months ago during the draw, everyone said we had been drawn in an even group. I see now that this is definitely the case and every match has been close so far. This group is balanced, with four quality teams.
Herrera: Man Utd showed we're a big team against Liverpool
Ander Herrera hailed the fighting spirit of his Manchester United team-mates in their 0-0 Premier League draw with Liverpool, although he was disappointed not to win the game.
Jose Mourinho's side, who had won their last four league meetings with their fierce rivals, frustrated the hosts for long spells in a tense and largely uneventful game at Anfield.
United were restricted to 35 per cent possession and mustered only one shot on target, though Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed the best chance of the match when he headed Paul Pogba's cross back across the six-yard line and away from Loris Karius's goal.Herrera believes United can take plenty of encouragement from their display but insisted that their intention was not to settle for a draw.
"We were better in first half, they were better in the second half," he told Sky Sports . "David de Gea made two good saves in the second half but Zlatan missed a fantastic chance."No one wanted to lose but we can take a lot from this game. Now we have to win matches - we want to be champions and we have to win matches.
"We tried to win every duel, every ball. We knew it would be a big fight, they're in a very good moment, they press a lot and want to win every ball and we were prepared for that."We always want to win but we showed we're a big team and we're going to fight for everything. I'm very proud of every team-mate."
Ashley Young, who was handed a rare start on the United right as Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata dropped to the bench, felt his side should be proud of a defensive display that limited Liverpool to just three efforts on target in the 90 minutes.
"There were chances for both teams but we knew what our job was," he said. "We defended to a man. We had chances to win but it's a tough place to come, [though] we'd have liked the win.
"You don't want to lose at a place like this. We're disappointed we didn't get the three points but fought to the end and we've got great team spirit.
"We did a fantastic job, I think we can be very proud of our team, every player gave everything and this is how we have to play big matches."
Ander Herrera hailed the fighting spirit of his Manchester United team-mates in their 0-0 Premier League draw with Liverpool, although he was disappointed not to win the game.
Jose Mourinho's side, who had won their last four league meetings with their fierce rivals, frustrated the hosts for long spells in a tense and largely uneventful game at Anfield.
United were restricted to 35 per cent possession and mustered only one shot on target, though Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed the best chance of the match when he headed Paul Pogba's cross back across the six-yard line and away from Loris Karius's goal.Herrera believes United can take plenty of encouragement from their display but insisted that their intention was not to settle for a draw.
"We were better in first half, they were better in the second half," he told Sky Sports . "David de Gea made two good saves in the second half but Zlatan missed a fantastic chance."No one wanted to lose but we can take a lot from this game. Now we have to win matches - we want to be champions and we have to win matches.
"We tried to win every duel, every ball. We knew it would be a big fight, they're in a very good moment, they press a lot and want to win every ball and we were prepared for that."We always want to win but we showed we're a big team and we're going to fight for everything. I'm very proud of every team-mate."
Ashley Young, who was handed a rare start on the United right as Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata dropped to the bench, felt his side should be proud of a defensive display that limited Liverpool to just three efforts on target in the 90 minutes.
"There were chances for both teams but we knew what our job was," he said. "We defended to a man. We had chances to win but it's a tough place to come, [though] we'd have liked the win.
"You don't want to lose at a place like this. We're disappointed we didn't get the three points but fought to the end and we've got great team spirit.
"We did a fantastic job, I think we can be very proud of our team, every player gave everything and this is how we have to play big matches."
Mourinho: I expected more from Pogba
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has criticised Paul Pogba's lack of impact during Monday's 0-0 draw at Liverpool.
While the Red Devils performed outstanding in defence, shutting out Liverpool at every opportunity on Monday night, they left a lot to be desired in attack.
Mourinho highlighted Pogba's relative anonymity in attack as part of the problem, as well as the golden opportunity Zlatan Ibrahimovic failed to head on target midway through the second half."Had it been 1-0, it would have been finished," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "Where Pogba was playing, I was expecting more penetration.
"Defensively we did really well, we should have had a little bit more. We had a big chance that I thought Zlatan was going to score."It was a very difficult game for us and for them. More difficult game for them than us. We started really well and were completely in control.
"The game was completely under control. We controlled very well the emotions of the game. We could influence the crowd. They were waiting for an easy match."
Next up for Man Utd is a clash at Old Trafford with Fenerbahce on Thursday in the Europa League.
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has criticised Paul Pogba's lack of impact during Monday's 0-0 draw at Liverpool.
While the Red Devils performed outstanding in defence, shutting out Liverpool at every opportunity on Monday night, they left a lot to be desired in attack.
Mourinho highlighted Pogba's relative anonymity in attack as part of the problem, as well as the golden opportunity Zlatan Ibrahimovic failed to head on target midway through the second half."Had it been 1-0, it would have been finished," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "Where Pogba was playing, I was expecting more penetration.
"Defensively we did really well, we should have had a little bit more. We had a big chance that I thought Zlatan was going to score."It was a very difficult game for us and for them. More difficult game for them than us. We started really well and were completely in control.
"The game was completely under control. We controlled very well the emotions of the game. We could influence the crowd. They were waiting for an easy match."
Next up for Man Utd is a clash at Old Trafford with Fenerbahce on Thursday in the Europa League.
Mourinho: Liverpool aren't the last wonder of the world
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at some of the widespread praise of Liverpool's form this season following their 0-0 draw at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp's side had scored 18 goals in their first seven Premier League games, which included away wins against Arsenal and Chelsea, but they were frustrated by United in a tense stalemate on Monday.
David de Gea made two excellent saves for the visitors but Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed the best chance of the match when he headed wide from a Paul Pogba cross in the second half.
Mourinho felt that moment should have been enough to seal the win for his side and suggested that the plaudits aimed at a Liverpool team who were kept at arm's length for much of the match have been exaggerated.
"I think it was a very difficult game, more difficult for them than us," he told Sky Sports. "I think we kept control for long periods. First half we were in complete control, second half David had two great saves but they were out of context.
"The game was in complete control, tactically and emotionally. We controlled the emotion of ourselves and also them, we influenced that atmosphere in the stadium - they were always showing disappointment. They were expecting an easy game and it wasn't."We had a big chance that I thought Zlatan would score - you score that, it's 1-0, thank you, it's finished.
"We knew it would be very difficult for them to score a goal and we thought we'd score the goal to win the match. We tried to start strong in both halves but they are a good team. But they're not the last wonder of the world like you try to say they are, but they are a very good team."
United had just 35 per cent of the possession during the 90 minutes, but Mourinho was not concerned by such a low figure."It was the game plan we had, we didn't want to control by having the ball all the time," he said simply.
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at some of the widespread praise of Liverpool's form this season following their 0-0 draw at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp's side had scored 18 goals in their first seven Premier League games, which included away wins against Arsenal and Chelsea, but they were frustrated by United in a tense stalemate on Monday.
David de Gea made two excellent saves for the visitors but Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed the best chance of the match when he headed wide from a Paul Pogba cross in the second half.
Mourinho felt that moment should have been enough to seal the win for his side and suggested that the plaudits aimed at a Liverpool team who were kept at arm's length for much of the match have been exaggerated.
"I think it was a very difficult game, more difficult for them than us," he told Sky Sports. "I think we kept control for long periods. First half we were in complete control, second half David had two great saves but they were out of context.
"The game was in complete control, tactically and emotionally. We controlled the emotion of ourselves and also them, we influenced that atmosphere in the stadium - they were always showing disappointment. They were expecting an easy game and it wasn't."We had a big chance that I thought Zlatan would score - you score that, it's 1-0, thank you, it's finished.
"We knew it would be very difficult for them to score a goal and we thought we'd score the goal to win the match. We tried to start strong in both halves but they are a good team. But they're not the last wonder of the world like you try to say they are, but they are a very good team."
United had just 35 per cent of the possession during the 90 minutes, but Mourinho was not concerned by such a low figure."It was the game plan we had, we didn't want to control by having the ball all the time," he said simply.
Mourinho & Klopp praise ref Anthony Taylor after Liverpool-Man Utd stalemate
Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho praised the performance of referee Anthony Taylor following Monday's dour goalless draw between Liverpool and Manchester United.
The appointment of official Taylor for the Anfield clash between the two fierce rivals drew a backlash from Liverpool supporters due to the fact he is from the Manchester area.
United manager Mourinho himself expressed concern in the pre-match build-up when he said: "I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance."
However, Taylor had an assured evening in the middle and Mourinho felt the referee handled the pressure of the match well."Can I speak about the referee without being punished?" He told a post-match news conference.
"He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him. It would be difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had."
Liverpool boss Klopp added that little talk about Taylor's performance after the game can only mean he put in a good performance."Nobody is asking about the referee so maybe that's the biggest compliment to him," he said. "I can't remember any harsh situations."
Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho praised the performance of referee Anthony Taylor following Monday's dour goalless draw between Liverpool and Manchester United.
The appointment of official Taylor for the Anfield clash between the two fierce rivals drew a backlash from Liverpool supporters due to the fact he is from the Manchester area.
United manager Mourinho himself expressed concern in the pre-match build-up when he said: "I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance."
However, Taylor had an assured evening in the middle and Mourinho felt the referee handled the pressure of the match well."Can I speak about the referee without being punished?" He told a post-match news conference.
"He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him. It would be difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had."
Liverpool boss Klopp added that little talk about Taylor's performance after the game can only mean he put in a good performance."Nobody is asking about the referee so maybe that's the biggest compliment to him," he said. "I can't remember any harsh situations."
'They came to do a job' - Liverpool captain Henderson frustrated by Man Utd
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson cut a frustrated figure after the Reds stuttered to a goalless draw with arch-rivals Manchester United.
Much was expected of the fiery Premier League fixture but Monday's blockbuster failed to live up to the hype as United negated the attacking threat of Liverpool at Anfield.
In a game lacking clear-cut chances, United goalkeeper David de Gea produced two fine saves to deny Emre Can and Philippe Coutinho in the second half.
The forgettable stalemate brought an end to Liverpool's four-game winning streak in the Premier League, much to the disappointment of Henderson.
"We're a bit frustrated," Henderson told Sky Sports. "We're also a bit disappointed because we didn't play to the level we're capable of and set this season in the majority of games.
"At times we were good but the rhythm wasn't there in the final third, we didn't create many clear-cut chances. We defended well and won the ball back, but we could have been more decisive in the final third. Man Utd are a great side, though, you've got to respect them. They came here and did a job."I'm not sure if it was nervy but maybe we were trying to force it a little bit, it was a bit hectic at times. In terms of winning the ball back we had the right attitude.
"Early on we didn't start great, we grew into it as the half went on and dominated the ball more. We dominated in the second half again but didn't create that chance. Phillipe's [Coutinho] strike – I thought it was in top corner but it was a great save!"
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson cut a frustrated figure after the Reds stuttered to a goalless draw with arch-rivals Manchester United.
Much was expected of the fiery Premier League fixture but Monday's blockbuster failed to live up to the hype as United negated the attacking threat of Liverpool at Anfield.
In a game lacking clear-cut chances, United goalkeeper David de Gea produced two fine saves to deny Emre Can and Philippe Coutinho in the second half.
The forgettable stalemate brought an end to Liverpool's four-game winning streak in the Premier League, much to the disappointment of Henderson.
"We're a bit frustrated," Henderson told Sky Sports. "We're also a bit disappointed because we didn't play to the level we're capable of and set this season in the majority of games.
"At times we were good but the rhythm wasn't there in the final third, we didn't create many clear-cut chances. We defended well and won the ball back, but we could have been more decisive in the final third. Man Utd are a great side, though, you've got to respect them. They came here and did a job."I'm not sure if it was nervy but maybe we were trying to force it a little bit, it was a bit hectic at times. In terms of winning the ball back we had the right attitude.
"Early on we didn't start great, we grew into it as the half went on and dominated the ball more. We dominated in the second half again but didn't create that chance. Phillipe's [Coutinho] strike – I thought it was in top corner but it was a great save!"
Wenger: Arsenal will need 'a good bank' to keep Ozil
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger conceded the Londoners will have to break the bank to ensure Mesut Ozil signs a new contract.
Ox admits he could leave ArsenalOzil's current deal expires in 2018 but the Germany international reportedly wants improved terms to remain at the Emirates Stadium.
The 28-year-old also wants to be part of a winning team, with Arsenal without a Premier League title since 2004.And as Wenger remained coy over Ozil's future, the Frenchman quipped: "If you have a good bank, call me."
Wenger added: "I don't think he needs convincing. He wants to stay here."It's not just money. Arsenal can win titles of course. But that's what we have to show. We are in a league where Man City, Man United, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea everybody fights and you cannot guarantee that to anybody.
"We keep that [negotiations] discreet. At due time we will come out with that. We want to keep our best players, of course. But the more I say that, the more he is in a stronger position."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger conceded the Londoners will have to break the bank to ensure Mesut Ozil signs a new contract.
Ox admits he could leave ArsenalOzil's current deal expires in 2018 but the Germany international reportedly wants improved terms to remain at the Emirates Stadium.
The 28-year-old also wants to be part of a winning team, with Arsenal without a Premier League title since 2004.And as Wenger remained coy over Ozil's future, the Frenchman quipped: "If you have a good bank, call me."
Wenger added: "I don't think he needs convincing. He wants to stay here."It's not just money. Arsenal can win titles of course. But that's what we have to show. We are in a league where Man City, Man United, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea everybody fights and you cannot guarantee that to anybody.
"We keep that [negotiations] discreet. At due time we will come out with that. We want to keep our best players, of course. But the more I say that, the more he is in a stronger position."
Welcome to Jose's world! Man Utd taste price of success under Mourinho
When Manchester United fans rejoice in their position as holders of the record for most English league title wins, they chant their their 20 successes were achieved ‘the Matt Busby way’. But on Monday they got their first real taste of football 'the Jose Mourinho way' in the 0-0 stalemate against Liverpool at Anfield.
This was a fixture which had ended scoreless only once in 60 meetings in all competitions over the past 25 years. Yet Mourinho’s approach ensured a tight, tense affair that ultimately saw United succeed in closing out a previously free-flowing Liverpool side, but fail in causing Jurgen Klopp’s outfit enough problems to test a weak-looking defence.
In truth, Man Utd knew what they were getting in Mourinho. There was some suggestion that they may go for Mauricio Pochettino, who has shown at Espanyol, Southampton and Tottenham the kind of sensibilities normally demanded of a United manager. When they plumped for the former Chelsea and Inter boss, they did so having seen some of the highly-structured, cautious performances his sides had regularly put in to claim important points away from home.
It was clear from the moment United’s team was announced exactly what kind of performance this was likely to be. Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini were perhaps the Red Devils’ best two outfield players on the night, but both earned far more plaudits for their tracking and breaking-up of play than they did for their creative abilities.
Antonio Valencia and Eric Bailly also stood out at key moments, most notably when the Ecuadorian right-back made an exceptional tackle on Robert Firmino late in the day after Philippe Coutinho’s magnificent flick had finally opened up United. As a defensive team display, it was close to perfect.
Some will argue that David de Gea’s two fantastic saves in the second half bailed the manager out, but had United taken a different approach the Spaniard may well have been worked for more regularly over the course of the 90 minutes.
All that was really missing for United was a snatched winner. It should have arrived early in the second half when Paul Pogba’s wonderful cross found Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the far post, but the Swede somehow sent his headed effort back across the face of Loris Karius’ goal. After an explosive start, Ibrahimovic’s performances have simmered more in recent games, but nobody could have expected him to miss such a glorious opportunity.
United fans will wonder whether the defensive tactics were really worth it, with back-to-back victories in league visits to Anfield under Louis van Gaal proving that it doesn’t always take such a performance to get something against Liverpool. But the form of Klopp’s men had left a fair proportion of the United fan base fearing much worse than a 0-0 draw.
Mourinho will take the positives from this performance. In the last three league games he has seen that his team knows how to attack at will, as they did against Leicester and Stoke, and now he can safely say that when the need arises for a rearguard display they can also deliver.
It might not be typically the United way but whether Mourinho is a success or a failure in his reign as Manchester United manager, he will do so in his own inimitable style. United fans will just have to accept that this may prove to be the price of success.
When Manchester United fans rejoice in their position as holders of the record for most English league title wins, they chant their their 20 successes were achieved ‘the Matt Busby way’. But on Monday they got their first real taste of football 'the Jose Mourinho way' in the 0-0 stalemate against Liverpool at Anfield.
This was a fixture which had ended scoreless only once in 60 meetings in all competitions over the past 25 years. Yet Mourinho’s approach ensured a tight, tense affair that ultimately saw United succeed in closing out a previously free-flowing Liverpool side, but fail in causing Jurgen Klopp’s outfit enough problems to test a weak-looking defence.
In truth, Man Utd knew what they were getting in Mourinho. There was some suggestion that they may go for Mauricio Pochettino, who has shown at Espanyol, Southampton and Tottenham the kind of sensibilities normally demanded of a United manager. When they plumped for the former Chelsea and Inter boss, they did so having seen some of the highly-structured, cautious performances his sides had regularly put in to claim important points away from home.
It was clear from the moment United’s team was announced exactly what kind of performance this was likely to be. Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini were perhaps the Red Devils’ best two outfield players on the night, but both earned far more plaudits for their tracking and breaking-up of play than they did for their creative abilities.
Antonio Valencia and Eric Bailly also stood out at key moments, most notably when the Ecuadorian right-back made an exceptional tackle on Robert Firmino late in the day after Philippe Coutinho’s magnificent flick had finally opened up United. As a defensive team display, it was close to perfect.
Some will argue that David de Gea’s two fantastic saves in the second half bailed the manager out, but had United taken a different approach the Spaniard may well have been worked for more regularly over the course of the 90 minutes.
All that was really missing for United was a snatched winner. It should have arrived early in the second half when Paul Pogba’s wonderful cross found Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the far post, but the Swede somehow sent his headed effort back across the face of Loris Karius’ goal. After an explosive start, Ibrahimovic’s performances have simmered more in recent games, but nobody could have expected him to miss such a glorious opportunity.
United fans will wonder whether the defensive tactics were really worth it, with back-to-back victories in league visits to Anfield under Louis van Gaal proving that it doesn’t always take such a performance to get something against Liverpool. But the form of Klopp’s men had left a fair proportion of the United fan base fearing much worse than a 0-0 draw.
Mourinho will take the positives from this performance. In the last three league games he has seen that his team knows how to attack at will, as they did against Leicester and Stoke, and now he can safely say that when the need arises for a rearguard display they can also deliver.
It might not be typically the United way but whether Mourinho is a success or a failure in his reign as Manchester United manager, he will do so in his own inimitable style. United fans will just have to accept that this may prove to be the price of success.
UEFA Champions League Group Stages Fixtures 2016.10.18
UEFA Champions League Group Stages Fixtures 2016.10.18
CSKA Vs Monaco
Leverkusen Vs Tottenham
Sporting Vs Dortmund
Real Madrid Vs Legia
Leicester City Vs Kobenhavn
Club Brugge Vs Porto
Dinamo Zagreb Vs Sevilla
LYON Vs Juventus
Mourinho asked to explain referee comments by FA
The Football Association (FA) has asked Jose Mourinho to explain comments he made about referee Anthony Taylor ahead of Monday's 0-0 draw between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield.
Omnisport understands United boss Mourinho has until 6pm on Friday to respond to the governing body, at which point the FA will decide whether to charge him in relation to rules prohibiting managers from speaking about referees in the build-up to matches.
In his pre-match news conference, Mourinho said Altrincham-based Taylor would struggle to have "a very good performance" at the centre of United and Liverpool's fierce rivalry due to him hailing from the north west of England
"I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel that it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance,'' he said.
After the stalemate on Merseyside, Mourinho asked United's press officer if he was allowed to pass comment on Taylor before praising his performance.
"He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him and it was very difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had," he said.
In May 2011, former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was the first manager to be punished under the rules introduced in 2009, when he said Howard Webb was "definitely the best referee in the country" ahead of a match with Chelsea.
Mourinho is no stranger to run-ins with the FA over refereeing issues.
As his second Chelsea reign unravelled last season, he was handed a suspended one-match stadium ban and a £50,000 fine for suggesting referees were "afraid" to award penalties to his team in the aftermath of a 3-1 loss to Southampton.
The Portuguese's behaviour towards the match officials during a defeat at West Ham last October saw him sent to the stands and banned from attending a subsequent trip to Stoke City.
The Football Association (FA) has asked Jose Mourinho to explain comments he made about referee Anthony Taylor ahead of Monday's 0-0 draw between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield.
Omnisport understands United boss Mourinho has until 6pm on Friday to respond to the governing body, at which point the FA will decide whether to charge him in relation to rules prohibiting managers from speaking about referees in the build-up to matches.
In his pre-match news conference, Mourinho said Altrincham-based Taylor would struggle to have "a very good performance" at the centre of United and Liverpool's fierce rivalry due to him hailing from the north west of England
"I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel that it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance,'' he said.
After the stalemate on Merseyside, Mourinho asked United's press officer if he was allowed to pass comment on Taylor before praising his performance.
"He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him and it was very difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had," he said.
In May 2011, former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was the first manager to be punished under the rules introduced in 2009, when he said Howard Webb was "definitely the best referee in the country" ahead of a match with Chelsea.
Mourinho is no stranger to run-ins with the FA over refereeing issues.
As his second Chelsea reign unravelled last season, he was handed a suspended one-match stadium ban and a £50,000 fine for suggesting referees were "afraid" to award penalties to his team in the aftermath of a 3-1 loss to Southampton.
The Portuguese's behaviour towards the match officials during a defeat at West Ham last October saw him sent to the stands and banned from attending a subsequent trip to Stoke City.
Icardi 'is not our captain and never will be' - Inter ultras
Inter's ultras have denounced Mauro Icardi as club captain, driving home a further wedge in the shattered relationship between the player and the team's fans.
Icardi infuriated sections of the Curva Nord ultras after a passage in his new autobiography suggested he had made himself a "hero" by standing up to one of the group's leaders.
The 23-year-old claimed he had argued with the fan following Inter's 3-1 loss to Sassuolo in 2014-15, after his shirt - which he attempted to give to a member of the crowd - was thrown back at him.
Banners were displayed during Inter's 2-1 loss to Cagliari on Sunday claiming Icardi's career with the club was "finished", while sections of the supporters cheered when he missed a penalty.
A club statement released on Monday confirmed Icardi had been sanctioned, although he is expected to retain possession of the armband, prompting the Curva Nord to claim the striker is not worthy of leading the team.
"For us as for everyone else - we hope - the captain of Internazionale should be a symbol," a statement read. "Experience, charisma, humility, integrity, intelligence.
"[Armando] Picchi - [Giacinto] Facchetti - [Sandro] Mazzola - [Giuseppe] Bergomi - [Javier] Zanetti... basically the opposite of Icardi.
"We therefore cannot find agreement with the statement of the Inter hierarchy. We understand it, the logic, the motivation. But we can't accept it."It's not for us to decide though, to each his proper role. That's what we've always asked for, that's how it should be.
"We believe though that a club like Inter, outside of our views, shouldn't allow an individual like Icardi to wear the captain's armband."Icardi is a closed chapter, we don't want to talk about this anymore. HE IS NOT OUR CAPTAIN. HE IS NOT NOW, HE NEVER WILL BE."
Inter's ultras have denounced Mauro Icardi as club captain, driving home a further wedge in the shattered relationship between the player and the team's fans.
Icardi infuriated sections of the Curva Nord ultras after a passage in his new autobiography suggested he had made himself a "hero" by standing up to one of the group's leaders.
The 23-year-old claimed he had argued with the fan following Inter's 3-1 loss to Sassuolo in 2014-15, after his shirt - which he attempted to give to a member of the crowd - was thrown back at him.
Banners were displayed during Inter's 2-1 loss to Cagliari on Sunday claiming Icardi's career with the club was "finished", while sections of the supporters cheered when he missed a penalty.
A club statement released on Monday confirmed Icardi had been sanctioned, although he is expected to retain possession of the armband, prompting the Curva Nord to claim the striker is not worthy of leading the team.
"For us as for everyone else - we hope - the captain of Internazionale should be a symbol," a statement read. "Experience, charisma, humility, integrity, intelligence.
"[Armando] Picchi - [Giacinto] Facchetti - [Sandro] Mazzola - [Giuseppe] Bergomi - [Javier] Zanetti... basically the opposite of Icardi.
"We therefore cannot find agreement with the statement of the Inter hierarchy. We understand it, the logic, the motivation. But we can't accept it."It's not for us to decide though, to each his proper role. That's what we've always asked for, that's how it should be.
"We believe though that a club like Inter, outside of our views, shouldn't allow an individual like Icardi to wear the captain's armband."Icardi is a closed chapter, we don't want to talk about this anymore. HE IS NOT OUR CAPTAIN. HE IS NOT NOW, HE NEVER WILL BE."
Ronaldo wants Coutinho at Real Madrid
Former Real Madrid striker Ronaldo has spoken of his desire for compatriot Philippe Coutinho to make the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Liverpool forward Coutinho has become a key figure at Anfield since joining from Inter in January 2013.
The Brazil international's performances on Merseyside have drawn admiring glances from elsewhere, with Madrid's La Liga rivals Barcelona having previously been linked.
And Ronaldo, who spent five years at Los Blancos, would be keen for Coutinho to follow his lead of playing in Madrid."I would like to see Coutinho, the Liverpool player, at Real Madrid," the former Brazil star told Onda Cero.
The 40-year-old also stated that there is little to separate Cristiano Ronaldo from Barcelona trio Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar when it comes to deciding who is the best player in the world.
"Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar are all great players - and I would include Suarez in that list as well," he added."We often forget that they are all great players when we are talking about who is the best. It is very hard to say who is the best.
"I am going to say Cristiano, because he plays for Madrid. But we cannot ignore how good the others are. We have to respect them."
Former Real Madrid striker Ronaldo has spoken of his desire for compatriot Philippe Coutinho to make the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Liverpool forward Coutinho has become a key figure at Anfield since joining from Inter in January 2013.
The Brazil international's performances on Merseyside have drawn admiring glances from elsewhere, with Madrid's La Liga rivals Barcelona having previously been linked.
And Ronaldo, who spent five years at Los Blancos, would be keen for Coutinho to follow his lead of playing in Madrid."I would like to see Coutinho, the Liverpool player, at Real Madrid," the former Brazil star told Onda Cero.
The 40-year-old also stated that there is little to separate Cristiano Ronaldo from Barcelona trio Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar when it comes to deciding who is the best player in the world.
"Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar are all great players - and I would include Suarez in that list as well," he added."We often forget that they are all great players when we are talking about who is the best. It is very hard to say who is the best.
"I am going to say Cristiano, because he plays for Madrid. But we cannot ignore how good the others are. We have to respect them."
Cavani an example to follow for PSG stars - Emery
Unai Emery sees Edinson Cavani's blistering start to the 2016-17 season as an example for the rest of his Paris Saint-Germain squad to follow.
Cavani has scored 12 goals in 10 appearances in all competitions for PSG so far this term, emphatically answering questions over his ability to fill the void left by Zlatan Ibrahimovic's departure.
Having seen the Uruguayan rise to the challenge levelled at him, the coach hopes other players in his squad can follow suit, in particular new additions like Grzegorz Krychowiak, who is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time in Paris."The team is working well, with the intention to improve, and they listen.
We can play better than we did in our last game [a 2-1 win away at Nancy]," said Emery ahead of Wednesday's Champions League meeting with Basel."They've done the work we wanted them to do. That's the first thing, and after that we have a team with a lot of quality and growing confidence."Look at Edinson Cavani. People wanted him to score more goals and now everyone is happy. The quality in the team is clear.
"The new players have to adapt to the team, Krychowiak included. It's a question of personal progression and working for the team, but it's important to have competition in the squad.
"We want to improve our position in the league and how we play tactically, and improvement breeds confidence. There are some players who aren't at their best, but I have confidence in them."
PSG are joint-top with Arsenal in Group A, three points clear of Ludogorets and Basel, but Emery is not underestimating the Swiss champions.
"Basel have lots of experienced players, and international players. They're very competitive and used to winning in their league. If they're in the Champions League, it's because they deserve it. We respect them," he added.
According to Blaise Matuidi, the Ligue 1 champions are more interested in reaching the knockout stages than finishing top of the group."The first goal is qualification, but if we can have first place as the icing on the cake that'd be good," said Matuidi.
"For that we need a win tomorrow and to see what happens after. The game against Basel will be difficult, but we're prepared. We expect a difficult game, but that's how it is in the Champions League.
"Every game is difficult. Here we'll play a team wanting to do their best to take points because they're low in the table. They're here to put us off our stride."
Unai Emery sees Edinson Cavani's blistering start to the 2016-17 season as an example for the rest of his Paris Saint-Germain squad to follow.
Cavani has scored 12 goals in 10 appearances in all competitions for PSG so far this term, emphatically answering questions over his ability to fill the void left by Zlatan Ibrahimovic's departure.
Having seen the Uruguayan rise to the challenge levelled at him, the coach hopes other players in his squad can follow suit, in particular new additions like Grzegorz Krychowiak, who is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time in Paris."The team is working well, with the intention to improve, and they listen.
We can play better than we did in our last game [a 2-1 win away at Nancy]," said Emery ahead of Wednesday's Champions League meeting with Basel."They've done the work we wanted them to do. That's the first thing, and after that we have a team with a lot of quality and growing confidence."Look at Edinson Cavani. People wanted him to score more goals and now everyone is happy. The quality in the team is clear.
"The new players have to adapt to the team, Krychowiak included. It's a question of personal progression and working for the team, but it's important to have competition in the squad.
"We want to improve our position in the league and how we play tactically, and improvement breeds confidence. There are some players who aren't at their best, but I have confidence in them."
PSG are joint-top with Arsenal in Group A, three points clear of Ludogorets and Basel, but Emery is not underestimating the Swiss champions.
"Basel have lots of experienced players, and international players. They're very competitive and used to winning in their league. If they're in the Champions League, it's because they deserve it. We respect them," he added.
According to Blaise Matuidi, the Ligue 1 champions are more interested in reaching the knockout stages than finishing top of the group."The first goal is qualification, but if we can have first place as the icing on the cake that'd be good," said Matuidi.
"For that we need a win tomorrow and to see what happens after. The game against Basel will be difficult, but we're prepared. We expect a difficult game, but that's how it is in the Champions League.
"Every game is difficult. Here we'll play a team wanting to do their best to take points because they're low in the table. They're here to put us off our stride."
