Mourinho's Rants: CSKA Moscow (h)

Last updated : 21 October 2004 By Liam Corbett
Mourinho was, of course, reluctant to speak of Adrian Mutu. When questioned regarding the striker's situation Mourinho added, "I don't have big decisions to make when the medical department give information to me every day about him saying he's not available."

"The players don't deserve their manager speaking about other players - I won't speak about players who didn't participate in this game."

A visit of Blackburn this Saturday and West Ham in the Carling Cup on Wednesday may give players such as Scotty Parker, who got a 10 minute cameo last night, a chance to shine and claim a regular place.

"My decision is who needs a rest and who deserves to come in for the weekend's game against Blackburn.

"I will see the players' reaction in training tomorrow - that is what I have to worry about."

Mourinho admitted that the 2-0 win, courtesy of two headed goals from Tex and Eidur, wasn't the greatest spectacle but was a good way to forget about the Man City defeat.

"I think we played great matches against Porto and PSG but tonight wasn't a good game," added Mourinho.

"But we showed a good mental reaction after the defeat. I'm very happy. When you lose your life changes - but happiness is back."

Let's hope for another win this Saturday against Chelsea old boy Mark Hughes' Blackburn.