Jose Mourinho has hit back at Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp for his criticism of Manchester United’s defensive tactics during their 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.
Liverpool dropped points for the first time this season, and for the first time in 18 Premier League games, as Adam Lallana 85th minute goal rescued a draw for the Reds.
The leaders dominated possession and shots on target, but were repeatedly thwarted by United’s dogged defending the second-half.
A frustrated Klopp complained about Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tactics following the game, saying ‘it’s a fact’ United always set up to defend when the old rivals play.
The Liverpool boss said: “This year, last year, the year before, they just defend. Whoever said before the game that this game is always built up like a mountain and stuff like that and then we come here and they only have to defend. Since I’ve been in England it’s pretty much been like that. One day I will really wait for the day when they have to make the game against us and we defend – and let’s see how that is.”
And former United boss Mourinho has had a pop at the German, saying he’s just sour the struggling Red Devils proved a more stubborn opponent than perhaps he expected.
Although, he said it in the most Mourinho way possible…
Speaking as a pundit for Sky Sports at Old Trafford, the Portuguese said on Sunday: “Because he never beat Manchester United at Old Trafford.
“He didn’t like the menu. He likes meat and got fish, so he was not happy.
“[Liverpool] are, of course, much stronger playing against opposition that gives them chances for transitions and counter-attacks.
“Of course, United with the limitations they have at this moment played a different profile of game.
“They tried to be solid in the back, they tried not to give chances of transition, they always kept three centre-backs in position, plus McTominay and Fred, they were always compact.
“They [Liverpool] didn’t like the menu.”
