Jose Mourinho asked by FA to explain Anthony Taylor comments

The FA has written to Jose Mourinho asking him to explain comments he made about referee Anthony Taylor in the build-up to Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Liverpool on Monday.

The appointment of Taylor, who is from Wythenshawe in Greater Manchester and supports non-league club Altrincham, was questioned by some Liverpool fans after it was announced.

Mourinho was given a stadium ban last season for commenting on referees' handling of Chelsea games and was at first reluctant to talk about Taylor at his pre-match press conference, but the United boss eventually made his feelings plain.

He said on Friday: "I have my view, but I learned a lesson by being so many times punished by some words, so I don't want to say anything about it.

"I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee, but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance."

After Monday night's goalless draw Mourinho praised Taylor's performance.

"Can I speak about the referee without being punished?" he asked the club's press officer.

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After being given the go-ahead he added: "He had a good game and I am happy for him because people with responsibilities put a lot of pressure on him and it was very difficult for him to have a good performance, which he had."

Managers and players are not allowed to make any comments which could be viewed as intimidatory or influential about the appointed match officials before a game.

The FA has asked Mourinho for his observations on his comments and he has until Friday to respond.

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