Jose blames players for failing to ‘react’ to Devils’ intensity

TOTTENHAM boss Jose Mourinho insists his team “failed to react” to the intensity of Manchester United in the Premier League clash between the two sides.

Spurs failed to win for the first time since Mourinho replaced Mauricio Pochettino last month, going down 2-1 at Old Trafford yesterday.

As expected, former United boss Mourinho was well received by the home faithful, but his team did not start the game well.

Spurs were behind after just six minutes when Rashford fired home past Paulo Gazzaniga before Alli pounced to equalise against the run of play.

And Mourinho claims his players were not able to cope with the intensity of the home team early on.

“For 30 minutes United were not just better than us, they were much better than us,“Mourinho told his post-match press conference.

“They were much better in the intensity, in the aggression, they were winning first balls, second balls, 50-50 duels.

“United have good results against the best teams this season. At home against the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Leicester, they always had this kind of attitude.

“It’s easier for them because of the way they play, they are not afraid to have a defensive approach at home, take their time and handle the emotion of the game.

“They have lots of young players with lots of energy and a good mentality, and when they are winning matches, they are comfortable in the low block. It’s easier for them to play against better teams that want more of the ball and have the initiative. They did well.”

Pushed on whether Spurs arrived at Old Trafford arrogant after winning their first three matches under their new manager, Mourinho added: “I’ve tried to fight that state of mind.

“I told the players about the way United approached their home matches with strong starts and people running and pressing and trying to lift the crowd. We only have to blame ourselves.

“We didn’t lose because of an attacking set up, we lost because we approached the game in an emotional way.”

Spurs next welcome Burnley to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend while the Red Devils face Manchester City at the Etihad.