Essien: I back Jose at United

MICHAEL ESSIEN says he is still Jose Mourinho’s No.1 fan and is backing his former boss to remain at Manchester United.

Mourinho is clinging on to his job at Old Trafford after a run of poor results

Essien became his Mr Reliable during his two spells at Chelsea and their bond remains a close one.

The former Ghana star, talking at a Champions League event, alongside Nissan, said: “He had a very big influence on me and I am backing him because I am still his No.1 fan!

“I have to back him to turn things around and it is a difficult situation, but I am sure that he can do it.

“When you play under Mourinho, you know you are going to win titles. This season seems a bit difficult now, but it is still long.”