Jose Mourinho says he is happy England qualified for Brazil 2014.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho said he was happy to see England qualify for next summer’s World Cup in Brazil, claiming the tournament will be better for having the Three Lions present.
Mourinho’s own Portugal face a nervy play-off next month after finishing second in their group but Roy Hodgson’s men secured qualification after two home wins in five days against Montenegro and Poland.
And the Blues head-coach admitted he was happy to see England qualify, particularly because the likes of Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole and Gary Cahill will now avoid a two legged play-off.
“A World Cup without England is not a World Cup,” said the former Inter Milan and Real Madrid boss.
“They are one of the big football countries and, even if at one moment the team is not at a high level, England always have to be in a World Cup.
“I didn’t celebrate on Tuesday by jumping up and down or drinking because that’s not in my nature but inside I was happy.
“England deserved to qualify and the tournament will be better for having them there.
“With the pressure of the last two matches which they had to win, they coped well.
“Part of me was happy my Chelsea players won’t have the pressure of the play-offs in November and can play two friendlies instead, rather than worrying about Brazil.”
COMMENTS