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Ferguson backs Mourinho’s ‘enthusiasm’

Comment: 0 September 7th, 2011 by: admin

For once, Sir Alex Ferguson finds himself on the unpopular side.

At an interview held a few days ago, the Manchester United coach came to the defence of controversial Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho.

According to Ferguson, although managers must have a care to avoid embarrassing themselves, the Real Madrid coach must be admired for his attitude, despite his behaviour.

‘I don’t think there’s anything wrong with this enthusiasm that coaches like Mourinho have,’ said Ferguson.  ‘I had it when I was young.  When I was young I was out there all the time, directing and all that.’

‘That’s the way Mourinho is, that’s his nature,’ he continued.  ‘You have some coaches who sit there and take notes.’

‘I can’t do that.  I’ve never done that.  I depend on my brain to remember things.’

Already famous for his unconventional statements and erratic outbursts, Mourinho again made headlines a few weeks ago after a Real Madrid match against Barca for the Spanish Super Cup.  TV cameras caught Mourinho gouging the eye of Barca assistant coach Tito Vilanova during a fracas between the two rival teams.

One of Mourinho’s moments of glory when, while still Porto manager, he eliminated Man United from the Champions league in 2004 at Old Trafford.

‘He ran all the way down the touchline and was jumping bout like a madman,’ Ferguson recalled.  ‘I said to myself, “I used to do that myself!”’

‘There’s nothing wrong with enthusiasm,’ he continued.  ‘Obviously you don’t want to embarrass yourself.’

‘But when people can recognise that enthusiastic part, supporters know that guy is fighting for them.’

Reports state that Mourinho is currently being eyed to succeed Ferguson upon his retirement as Manchester United coach.

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