Mourinho inspiration on the mind of Swansea’s Clement

Paul Clement is full of admiration for Jose Mourinho, but the Swansea manager admits it will count for nothing unless his side pick up points when the two meet this weekend.

Clement was at Chelsea when Mourinho walked the same corridors, picking up plenty of knowledge in his own pursuit to become a top-flight manager.

That dream has since become reality for the 44-year-old, but is now very much at risk of becoming a nightmare as his Swans battle against relegation from the Premier League.

And all niceties will be cast aside when Clement faces Mourinho’s Manchester United fresh off their city derby, though the need is certainly greater for the Liberty Stadium outfit.

They sit in the relegation zone with just four games remaining, but the manager is certain there is still more than enough time for their division status to be decided.

“I was at Fulham when he started his (Mourinho’s) first stint at Chelsea, but I returned to Chelsea towards the end of it,” he said.

“I was there for four or five months before he left and it was fantastic for me as an aspiring young coach to watch him in training.

“For sure he has had an influence on my coaching methods. He has been a brilliant manager for many years across Europe and I look forward to facing him.

“There are 12 points to play for, lots of football ahead, and I believe it will go to the last day.

“I am hoping that will be the case – that we will play West Brom at home on the last day with a chance to stay in the division.”