Jose Mourinho says Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic only asks to come off if the issue is ‘important’.
The Serbia international, who arrived from Premier League champions Chelsea in the summer, was withdrawn early in the second half at Watford on Tuesday night with what Mourinho has confirmed as a ‘muscular’ problem.
The 29-year-old has featured in all but one of United’s games so far this season and while Mourinho says his absence cost them stability, he did enjoy the ‘happiness’ in his side’s performance.
"We lost stability when Nemanja Matic had to come out but the important thing is the three points. I saw happiness from the team and played with a free mind.
"Last season I learned what Ashley Young can be, he gives stability in his performances and this season he is playing more regularly. He has the spirit and experience we need, today he also had the talent to score two beautiful goals.
"For Matic to tell me he wants to be replaced, he does not do that if it is nothing important. It is muscular."
