IBRA NEEDS A BREATHER!

Mourinho hails Zlat

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC has made himself undroppable, according to Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho.

The 35-year-old striker has bagged 14 goals this season and has rarely been left out since arriving from Paris St-Germain in the summer.

He has featured in 24 of United’s 26 games so far and will start at West Brom this evening.

But Mourinho admits he will have to give the Swedish star a break at some point this season.

“Is it almost impossible to leave him out? Yes, it is,” Mourinho said.

“As a striker he is in one of the impossible positions where you cannot hide. He is phenomenal and will play again and then one week to rest.

‘‘I am not surprised at all at his impact. I knew from the physical point of view he ® could resist, but obviously he cannot play 60 matches. I must give him a rest.

“In some matches in the Europa League he was on the bench, also against Northampton.

“So now and again I will find him a way to give him a rest.

“But as our target striker we can see he is the only one. And the way we normally play, we need him.”

United have already decided to extend the experienced hitman’s stay until the end of next season.

And Mourinho says Ibrahimovic, who hit the United winner at Crystal Palace on Wednesday, is a perfect role model for youngsters like Marcus Rashford.

“Zlatan is a great example in every aspect,” added Mourinho.

“He is professional with his lifestyle too. At 35, along with Michael Carrick, the kids could not have better examples.”

Ibrahimovic’s impact means United are unlikely to move for a striker in January.

“I like my squad and I also trust my squad,” said Mourinho.

“Am I waiting for someone to be here on January 1, or are we chasing some player because on that date we want a new player? Not at all.”