Comment: Cold shoulder as Mourinho gets dirty

If imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, then Alex Ferguson will have blushing red cheeks following Jose Mourinho’s latest replication of one of his most infamous initiatives, writes Wally Downes.

In retaliation to his latest charge by the FA, a £25,000 (€33,000) fine for claiming there is a campaign against his side and the three-match ban Diego Costa received for stamping, the Chelsea boss refused to fulfil his media duties prior to and after the 1-1 draw with Man City.

In previous and similar situations, the club has put forward his assistant Steve Holland to represent them but, in a clear indication that this stance is a direct retaliation rather than an excuse for some respite, Holland was not offered up. A blanket ban had been put in place.