LUKAKU Jose backs struggling United star

Mourinho stands by Lukaku, who is struggling to end eight-game goal drought under boss’ tactics

JOSE MOURINHO is standing by misfiring Romelu Lukaku as the striker struggles to end his goal drought.

Lukaku is low on confidence after going eight games without scoring for Manchester United and has managed just four in 13 club appearances this season.

By contrast he has five in his last four Belgium games, and Mourinho says he will not axe him for Sunday’s clash with the hitman’s former club Everton, perhaps mindful his tactics are not helping.

Mourinho also has no real other option as Anthony Martial, Alexis Sanchez and Marcus Rashford have just six goals between them.

“I have no criticism at all, but a complete understanding the player is a fantastic pro that wants to give everything,” said Mourinho after Lukaku’s latest blank against Juventus.

“But I have to agree his moment is not sweet, not just with the goals he is not scoring, but in his confidence, movement and touch. He is not linking the game well with the team. But he’s our striker, a good striker, and a striker we believe in.”

Lukaku, 25, scored 27 goals last season for United in his debut campaign and Mourinho is adamant the £75million man will come good.

“He’s a hard-working guy, is a good professional, but one day the goal will arrive and the confidence will be back,” added the United boss.

Lukaku was starved of service against Juventus and Paulo Dybala claims he was shocked by United’s approach in the first half when the forward scored Juventus’s winner.

“We played brilliantly in the first half, partly because United left us some space,” said the Argentine.

■■UNITED have been hit with a UEFA charge for the “field invasion” at the end of the game against Juventus when a man in his 40s approached Cristiano Ronaldo for a selfie. But the Reds have avoided punishment for their late arrival at Old Trafford and kicking-off two minutes 10 seconds behind schedule.