JOSE MOURINHO ADMITTED today that he was taken aback by the warmth of the reception he received on his return to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea manager.
The 50-year-old Portuguese has returned to the club after six years away and he saw his side comfortably overcome Hull City 2-0 to make a winning start to the new Premier League season.
Speaking afterwards, Mourinho said he was concerned that the crowd were paying too much attention to him and not showing enough support for the team.
“I think it’s enough,” he told Sky Sports with a smile.
“I need my team to be supported. I need them to sing my players’ names. I need them to push Chelsea all the way. So enough Mourinho and come on Chelsea!“I know they love me — that’s one of the reasons why I’m back and I could say yes to (Chelsea owner) Mr Abramovich. But now it’s my time to work for them and for them to support the team.”
Mourinho said it was “fantastic” to be back in English football, after early goals from Oscar and Frank Lampard put paid to promoted Hull.
He also revealed the subject of a lighthearted touchline conversation with his opposite number Steve Bruce that was captured on television in the moments before half-time.
“I thank Steve Bruce because our way of being in the same technical area is only possible in this country,” Mourinho said.
“He was saying that he wants Frank Lampard at the Bridge, because there is a fantastic bridge in Hull!”
