Ferguson backs Mourinho after criticism

Sir Alex Ferguson has defender Jose Mourinho for his actions on the touchline. The Man Utd boss has praised Mourinho, a coach who has been lined up as a successor for Fergie.

Mourinho took some criticism last month after some aggressive touchline antics against Barcelona. The Portuguese boss appeared to try to kick Cesc Fabregas whilst the midfielder lie on the floor, in addition Mourinho had been involved in an altercation with a member of Barcelona's backroom staff.

Ferguson has jumped to the defence of Mourinho, and said: "I don't find anything wrong with his enthusiasm, when I was younger I showed more enthusiasm on the bench too. I was always gesticulating and directing.

"It's Mourinho's nature to be agitated. When I saw Mourinho run up and down the touchline at Old Trafford when he coached Porto, I said to myself, 'Did I also use to do that?'

"People recognise his enthusiasm. The fans understand that he's fighting for them and for the squad.''