Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes Romelu Lukaku chose not to celebrate his goal against West Bromwich Albion on Sunday out of love for his former club.
The Belgian international's non-celebration at the Hawthorns was the topic of hot discussion between pundits, who suggested it was a response to the criticism he has received of late.
It was a repeat of the scenes at Old Trafford on Wednesday when Lukaku scored the only goal of the game against Bournemouth, as United bounced back from the weekend derby defeat to Manchester City.
Mourinho played down the latest incident in his post-match interview, claiming that the 24-year-old striker was showing Baggies fans respect after turning out for the West Midlands outfit on loan from Chelsea during the 2012/13 season.
"I didn't celebrate too. Nobody was happier than me, it's just a question of profile," the Portuguese coach said after the 2-1 away win.
"I am happy, I'm happy with the victory. But 15 years ago, I look at myself celebrating goals and now I feel a little ashamed with that, but with maturity you go into levels where you control your emotions better.
"Unless, I repeat, you score a winning goal in the last stage of a game.
"Also, I think Romelu had the fact that he was a happy kid at West Brom. He was a kid that was given all the conditions here to have the evolution he had.
"So probably in the back of his mind is that love for the club."
United are currently second on the English Premiership standings with 41-points from 18 matches - 11-points behind rivals Manchester City.
Mourinho's charges are scheduled to face Bristol City on Tuesday in an away English League Cup quarter-final clash.
Kick off is at 22:00 (SA time).
