Mourinho denies rift with Chelsea players

Jose Mourinho insists Chelsea’s Premier League title defence is not being ripped apart by dressing room rifts.

Mourinho’s side are languishing eight points behind leaders Manchester United after winning just two of their first seven league matches.

The Blues’ latest slip came in the Champions League on Tuesday when they were beaten 2-1 by Mourinho’s former club Porto.

But despite claims that Mourinho’s decision to drop John Terry and several other stars has created an antagonistic atmosphere in the squad, the Blues boss is adamant there is no threat to the champions’ unity.

“In here we speak openly. We criticise people without any kind of problems and no prima donnas crying,” Mourinho said ahead of Saturday’s game against Southampton.

“When you make a mistake you have to speak about it. You know what I call that, in football? Coaching.

“John is ready every game to play, even the ones I leave him on the bench, he’s ready to play.”