Man Utd Boss Jose Mourinho Contacted By FA Over Referee Anthony Taylor Remarks

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been contacted by the Football Association after stating it would be “difficult” for Anthony Taylor to referee Monday’s game at Liverpool.

Man Utd Boss Jose Mourinho Contacted By FA Over Referee Anthony Taylor Remarks

Mourinho claimed appointing Taylor for the game had put “pressure” on the Manchester-based official.

Managers are not supposed to talk about referees before matches.

The 53-year-old Portuguese has until Friday to give a response, which will then be evaluated by the FA.

United and Liverpool tied 0-0 Monday, in the first game with Man U for summer signings Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba. 

Former referee Howard Webb told BBC Radio 5 live that Mourinho, a former Chelsea boss, should be “taken to task” by the FA.

“It’s one thing someone from Manchester or Liverpool taking to social media, a fan commenting, but for a coach to do this when he knows the rules then there should be some action taken against him,” added Webb.

“Focusing the attention on a referee is simply mind games and trying to gain an advantage.”

When asked in a news conference ahead of Thursday’s Europa League home clash with Fenerbahce if players like Ibrahimovic and Pogba are “untouchables” who would always be chosen, Mourinho responded with a firm “No.”

“That was 11 years ago — a different Premier League and situation. We were the best team by far,” he said. “‘Untouchable’ in our team has to be the spirit, the commitment, the pride, the commitment to the club, respect to the fans. That has to be untouchable, not the players.”

Wayne Rooney has lost his regular starting place, and Mourinho refused to confirm whether the captain will return to Old Trafford Thursday for the match against Fenerbahce.

WIGAN, ENGLAND – JULY 16: Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho looks on during the pre season friendly match between Wigan Athletic and Manchester United at the JJB Stadium on July 16, 2016 in Wigan, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)