Jose Mourinho hugs reporter after Scott McTominay question

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was delighted with the performance of young midfielder Scott McTominay against Sevilla, saying ‘he did everything well.’

McTominay was chosen to start in a midfield three in the Champions League clash in Spain, and impressed as United drew 0-0 in the last 16 first leg.

Mourinho was keen to talk about McTominay’s display, rather than the fact that he took the place of £89m midfielder Paul Pogba, who started on the bench.

Mourinho was keen to talk about McTominay, rather than fact that he took Paul Pogba’s place

When the reporter asked him about McTominay, the United boss gave the interviewer a hug

When BT Sport reporter Des Kelly asked Mourinho about the young Englishman, the United manager was so delighted that he gave his interviewer an impromptu embrace. 

Mourinho said: ‘Can I hug you? Thank you, that’s a question. I went to the press conference before, and the questions were about Paul. The question should be about the kid.’

He was then effusive in his praise of McTominay, who was making only his second Champions League start, but effectively annulled Sevilla playmaker ever Banega for 90 minutes. 

McTominay was chosen to start in a midfield three in the Champions League and played well

Mourinho said: ‘I think he was fantastic, he did everything well. He put lots of pressure on Banega which was important to stop him playing. He was always comfortable, simple saving in possession. He was brilliant.’

Pogba in the end played the majority of the match, coming on after 20 minutes when Ander Herrera pulled up injured.

Mourinho was happy with Pogba’s display, as United ensured they will be favourites to progress following the second leg at Old Trafford.

He said: ‘In my opinion, the midfield started really well, then when Herrera came out, Paul made a big effort to play in the dynamic that we needed. It was a positive performance.’