JOSE MOURINHO

in his own words . . .

How was the break in Dubai last week?

Very good. The facilities are better than at any football club in the world. Unbelievable conditions to work, nice weather and three days of training. So we are all happy and lucky to play Monday, which gives us this extra day.

Stoke are without a manager. Were you surprised to see Mark Hughes sacked?

They have a manager (Eddie Niedzwiecki). I think he is a guy with great qualities to do the job. He was always a loyal member of Mark Hughes’s staff, like Mark Bowen. They were always a strong group so Ed is just continuity. I don’t think for the players it’s a different situation.

How is Zlatan Ibrahimovic?

Zlatan is not totally happy with his condition. He has consulted other doctors for more opinions. The date for him to be back to training is the end of January.

Any fears he won’t make it back?

No. He knows he’s in the last part of his career but his dream and his desire, his fight was always to end his career at the highest level.