PRIVILEGED PEP
Mourinho says City have had better deal over festive fixtures
JOSE MOURINHO has aimed a dig at Manchester United’s ‘privileged’ title rivals, pointing out the additional day that Pep Guardiola’s side have been handed in the fixture schedule.
Manchester City do not play until tomorrow night against Newcastle United while Mourinho’s men — 13 points behind the runaway Premier League leaders — face Burnley at Old Trafford today.
Arsenal do not play until Thursday night at Crystal Palace, and being left with less time to recover and prepare has irritated United’s manager. ‘I’m not just saying about the privileged ones with six days to recover — and to enjoy and to prepare for the next one,’ Mourinho said in a Christmas Day interview on Sky Sports.
‘But also the ones with a little bit more than us, for example the ones that play after ( Boxing Day). That extra day means a lot. What I call December injuries in English football, they are arriving. It depends on many factors but we open the door for what I call December injuries.’
LEON BRITTON is set to remain as caretaker manager for Swansea’s clash at Liverpool today but insists he would reject any offer of the permanent job, even if he managed three wins in their next three games. The Swansea legend oversaw a much-improved performance as his side fought back for a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace on Saturday and has received strong indications no permanent replacement will arrive before today’s match. Contenders include Frank de Boer, Aitor Karanka and Slaven Bilic, but Britton (left) is adamant he has no desire to join them on the shortlist. He said: ‘My thoughts on the full-time job are the same even if we win the next two or three games. I’d still tell the club I’m not ready yet. I’m here to help them in the short term. How long that is I’m not sure. It’s day by day and the main thing is the club gets the right person. However long that takes, I’ll be there to help. ‘The Palace draw showed if we get things right on the pitch this club is a great opportunity for someone.’