Jose Mourinho: Romelu Lukaku ‘fantastic’ for Man United
The Manchester United boss opens up about Romelu Lukaku ahead of their home clash against Southampton at Old Trafford on Saturday
Jose Mourinho believes Romelu Lukaku has proven a “fantastic” addition to the Manchester United team.
The Red Devils signed the Belgium international in a £75m deal from Premier League rivals Everton despite Lukaku’s former club Chelsea showing an interest in the powerful centre-forward.
The 24-year-old made a brilliant start to the Premier League season following an incredible return of 10 goals in nine games but Lukaku has been unable to maintain his prolific form in front of goal.
Lukaku has only netted four times in his last 19 games in all competitions and has failed to score against his new club’s rivals Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur this term.
The summer signing has been criticised for some underwhelming performances in the Manchester United team as the Red Devils continue to lose ground on Premier League leaders Manchester City.
Speaking to his pre match media conference ahead of Manchester United’s home clash against Southampton at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
“I think for any player to play 90 minutes in 20 Premier League matches is absolutely incredible,” Mourinho said.
“I have to be very grateful for his personality and for his character. He was in the picture, I’m not saying he was a direct influence, in some of the last goals we conceded. It’s a consequence of a player who really needs a little rest. But he’s fantastic for me and the team.”
Manchester United are 15 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City with 18 games to go in the title race.
The Red Devils signed three players in the summer transfer window, including Victor Lindelof and Nemanja Matic.
