JOSE: I’M UNDER FAR MOUR SCRUTINY

JOSE MOURINHO claims he is a victim of his own success – and is judged more harshly because of it. Mourinho was criticised for Manchester United’s cautious approach in last weekend’s 0-0 draw away to arch-rivals Liverpool. But the United boss believes his formidable trophy haul, and the high standards he has set in his career, mean he is under more scrutiny than other bosses. “I think it’s my fault, because people are used to my teams getting good results and winning titles,” said Mourinho (above). “Other people have more time than I have, other people have different standards than I have, and that’s not a problem for me at all. “We’re going to lose matches, that’s obvious, and I can imagine we’re going to have even more criticism than we have now, but honestly? No problem. “It’s not a motivation. It doesn’t change my mind or my stability. We work hard, we try to do the best we can and get the best possible results. “In relation to the last match, speaking about the Champions League, I’d like to know – because I don’t know – when United last won two consecutive matches away. “I’d like to know the last time United won nine points from three matches in the Champions League. So we’re doing OK.” The Reds take on Huddersfield today, and while they are likely to be in more attacking mode, Mourinho said he will continue to set up defensively when necessary. “If a team defends badly, concedes five goals but attacks phenomenally well and scores six, then that’s absolutely beautiful and amazing,” he said. “I know my team cannot score four, five or six every match. But we have to try to find a balance and I’m really happy with what the team is doing.” Mourinho said he still has no idea when injured Paul Pogba will return. “If you ask if he can play next weekend against Tottenham, then I don’t know,” the manager added. “I expect Eric Bailly to be back next week. I can’t tell you about Pogba.”