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Jose Mourinho makes interesting Newcastle United admission

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Tottenham Jose Mourinho has spoken of his affection for Newcastle United, even admitting he came close to joining the club some time ago.

Mourinho goes up against the Magpies this afternoon when they make the trip to North London to face his Spurs side, and it seems there will be an element of fondness held by Mourinho for his opposition this weekend.

The 57-year-old was handed his opportunity in coaching at Barcelona by the then-future Newcastle boss Bobby Robson, and it seems it is that that has built Mourninho’s interest in the St James’ Park club over the years.

Speaking to Sky Sports about the relationship he believes he has with Newcastle, Mourinho said: “It’s a club I feel connection with because of Mr Robson, it’s a simple as that.

“He had a huge passion for Newcastle and his area, Durham. He had it in his heart. So, through him I have become a little magpie!”

Indeed, it even seems as though Mourinho was close to following Robson to St James’ Park when the former England boss joined the Magpies in 1999, and explaining how that situation played out, Mourinho revealed:  “At the time I was already eyeing a different direction.

“Mr Robson always knew that I wanted to give everything that I could to him, but at the same time he also knew I had my eyes in a different direction – but yes, there was a chance.”

Assessing the summer Newcastle have had in terms of transfers and the takeover controversy, Mourinho added: “They managed to get some important players, that’s for sure.

“I could even feel Steve’s happiness when he was speaking about the new players. It’s been a really good transfer window for them so I don’t believe there has been a negative impact.”

It is good to see people of Mourinho’s profile speaking like this about Newcastle, and it just goes to show how well regarded the club are within the world of football.

Indeed, given the impact Robson had on Newcastle and so many other clubs during his time in football, you feel Mourinho may not be only whose affection for the club stems from Robson himself.

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