Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Morientes: It's Better That Mourinho Has Gone


The Spanish international striker admitted that some of the spark will be missing without the Premiership side's former manager on the touch-line to liven things up.

Without predicting if Mourinho's absence will affect Chelsea, Morientes did admit that he is relieved that the Portuguese trainer will not be involved.

"He is not a coach that I like to see on the opposing bench and it is true that it will different now," he explained.

"The game will not have the same spark as it has on other occasions. It will still be a very complicated match though.

"If they are coming without Mourinho then that is much better because he was an important personality.

"He does not play, but he had a big character on the sidelines. Maybe it will affect them as the team had such confidence in him."

Morientes then revealed his admiration for Terry and does not believe that a mask will affect the Chelsea skipper much if he has to wear one to protect his facial injury.

"He is incredible," the former Liverpool forward said. "Not just when he marks me, but especially for the effect that he has on their defence and their team and how difficult it is to pass him.

"He is a player who stays with you for every minute of the game. He is big and strong. He is one of the most complete players, not just because of his importance, but also his quality.

"I am convinced that wearing a mask will make no difference to him. It will be seen as an added problem, but he will still put his head in as if nothing is wrong."

Despite the Blues' recent dip in form, Morientes is convinced that they will still provide a stern test for Valencia, but he is hoping to find a chnk in Chelsea's armour.

"The English league is one of the strongest leagues in Europe and they are one of the strongest teams in that league," he stated.

"We will try and exploit any faults that they have and try to beat them that way."

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