Mourinho in surprise defence over Klopp touchline actions

Jurgen Klopp’s touchline antics at Old Trafford on Saturday have received the unexpected support of Manchester United counterpart Jose Mourinho.

Two goals from Marcus Rashford helped United to a narrow 2-1 win over Klopp’s side at Old Trafford – but the Liverpool manager found himself in trouble after racing 20 metres down the touchline to remonstrate with his player Dejan Lovren.

The Reds boss was quickly sent back to his technical area by fourth official Martin Atkinson, while referee Craig Pawson was also made aware of the incident but decided to take no action.

Klopp was angry with Lovren for getting tangled up with Marouane Fellaini as Liverpool chased an equaliser and Mourinho, who was sent to the stands for stepping out of his technical area back in September, praised the officials for their sensible approach.

“Probably you are not expecting my answer – but I’m happy with the decision,” Mourinho said when questioned about the incident.

“He (Klopp) was not speaking against the referee. He was upset with a player and the same happened to me against Crystal Palace where I was upset with my player and therefore they (the officials) understood that too.

“I think Martin Atkinson, after so many years of this, I think made the right decision. I saw it. He (Klopp) was very upset with his player and not at the referee.

“If you leave the technical area by a couple of metres – or in this case 20 metres – but to speak to your own player and not to complain about the referee’s decision, then they made the right decision.”

While the United boss had no reason to complain after collecting all three points, he could find himself in a hot debate with his match winner Rashford, who is said to be at odds with the United boss over his best position in the side.