Mourinho takes aim at reporters as Man United boss leaves news conference

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Manchester, December 13: Jose Mourinho cut short his news conference as the Manchester United manager grew frustrated with questions on reports of a bust-up following last week's derby against Manchester City.

Mourinho was speaking on the eve of his team's home clash against Bournemouth but the pre-match build-up centred on an alleged fracas between United and City players after the visitors left Old Trafford 2-1 winners on Sunday (December 10).

David Silva and Nicolas lifted City as Pep Guardiola's runaway Premier League leaders moved 11 points clear atop the table, though news quickly emerged about an incident in the tunnel post-match, reports suggesting Mourinho and several members of United's team and coaching staff took offence to apparently disrespectful celebrations.

Both Mourinho and Guardiola were careful when discussing the scuffle on Tuesday, and the United boss become visibly irritated when pressed on the matter by reports at Carrington Training Centre.

With the Football Association (FA) contacting United and City for their versions of events, Mourinho was asked if he expected anyone from the Red Devils to be punished and the Portuguese tactician quipped: "Why? I think you work for another club and not for the press."

The attention then turned to United forward Romelu Lukaku amid claims he could face punishment for throwing a water bottle during the scuffle at Old Trafford.

"You know accuse, prove, show evidence and punish him," Mourinho responded before the former Chelsea, Real Madrid and Inter boss replied: "I know. I am not confident. I know" when asked if he thought his United players behaved.

That pushed Mourinho over the edge as the 54-year-old left the news conference with a parting shot at reporters.

"You don't like Bournemouth eh? You don't respect them," Mourinho said as he walked out of the room.

"You don't think they are a team capable to come to Old Trafford and do well. No respect for Eddie Howe. No respect for their players."

Source: OPTA