LIAR 23

"I respect Mourinho a lot because with the way Chelsea are playing he has that arrogance. But he backs it up with what he does with the team and the players." He said

"He has to be respected for that because what he has done for Chelsea is
incredible and it makes the players believe in themselves and want to play for him.

"That is what we had when I was at Manchester United. The manager stuck up for you and believed in you. When you have got that with the manager the influence carries through the team."

"The Ferguson and Wenger rivalry has always been great and now there is
Mourinho as well.

"What I have heard and seen of him I like a lot. But all managers have to respect each other and they do."

And on English football.

"I watch as much English football as possible because I miss playing in the
Premiership. It is physical and intense in every game.

"But it doesn't come bigger or better than United against Liverpool because the rivalry between the two teams is so big. But with United, the way they are chasing Arsenal and Chelsea means it is important they keep their run going.

"United will always fight because that is what is bred into you at the club and that is what the manager will be telling the players."

And on Morientes

"He will pose a threat for every defence he plays against because he is like
Teddy Sheringham was.

"He has an amazing spring in the air and he is strong.

"But he is not only great in the air — he is skilful and holds the ball up well. He is an all-round tough player to face.

"To have that in your team will always cause problems for opponents and if he were to score against Manchester United, Liverpool fans would hail him as an instant hero.

"As a United fan I hope he doesn't score, but as a friend of his I hope he does well."

And on stringing words together

"I always wanted to learn the language because I think it is important.

"But it's about having the confidence to speak in public.

"The reaction has been good, even though the players have been taking the
mickey.