Mourinho defends promoting youth record

Manchester - Jose Mourinho has defended his commitment to promoting young talent as he faced the media for the first time as manager of Manchester United, a club renowned for an academy that's produced title-winning players.

The most successful academy graduate, Ryan Giggs, announced his departure from United last week after a 29-year association by stressing that "giving youth a chance" is in the club's DNA.

Mourinho's record of utilizing players developed by the club was questioned during two spells at Chelsea.

"I have promoted 49 youth players from academies," said the former FC Porto, Inter Millan, and Real Madrid coach.

"If you want, I can give you that list."

Mourinho added: "I never promote players because of a need - I do it because of conviction."