Johansson hopes for the best

UEFA president Lennart Johansson hopes tonight´s Champions League clash between Barcelona and Chelsea will go off in good spirits.

Ugly scenes unfolded as the Barclays Premiership leaders arrived in the Spanish city, with fans spitting at head coach Jose Mourinho after a fiery first leg in London on February 22 which saw Blues’ Asier del Horno sent off.

Johansson said at the FIFA team workshop in Dusseldorf today: “Of course I am hoping (the match will be in good spirits).

“Both sides are aware they are being observed and they know what expectations we have of them.

“I´m quite glad to say that I found out that there is a feeling of responsibility towards the public from both sides.”

Asked about his expectations for the return leg, Johansson replied: “I hope to see a match that pleases the spectators.

“I hope there will be fair play, no signs of racism and that the weather conditions and the pitch will be all right.”

The UEFA president was full of praise for Chelsea, adding: “The way they have tried to make arrangements with players and the squad they have now is excellent.

“And again their coach is one of the best we have in Europe.”

Even though Mourinho has burned some bridges with some of his post-match comments, Johansson feels a certain sense of sympathy for him.

He continued: “I cannot be very critical with Chelsea or anyone else.

“Tell me a coach who has not made a statement at some time that he should not have done.

“He (Mourinho) has learned, and everyone has learned, that is does not pay to misbehave.”

Johansson believes it would be good to give the coaches some time to cool down after important matches.

The Swede explained: “All the coaches, you can take anyone, are very much depending on results.

“I have a certain understanding that they are frustrated after a match and then they have to calmly answer all questions.

“They should have some peace and be left alone for a while.”