Mourinho's message tactic is legal

Football managers were today given the green light to send on substitutes with tactical notes to hand to team-mates.

While Chelsea have been credited with revamping the Premiership since Roman Abramovich's arrival in 2003, head coach Jose Mourinho may have started a new trend with his messaging system to players during games.

In Saturday's clash at Everton, Mourinho sent on Czech Republic international Jiri Jarosik in the 72nd minute with a note that was handed on to Portugal midfielder Tiago.

The tactic worked with the Premiership leaders holding on to win 1-0 at Goodison Park.

Referees chief Keith Hackett confirmed that Mourinho's tactics did not break any rules.

Hackett, who is head of the Professional Game Match Official Limited, said: "Effectively there's nothing in the laws that prevents it happening.

"It does not constitute a danger any more than people being in the technical area. They [Chelsea] have been a little more sophisticated and a little different. The Football Association were aware of it, and it's legal."

Hackett joked: "If he were to take a Christmas hamper on to the pitch it may be a different matter." CLAUDIO RANIERI has been given a vote of confidence by Valencia following a five-game winless streak.

The former Chelsea manager is under intense pressure ahead of tomorrow's UEFA Cup tie with Steaua Bucharest.

Valencia are fourth in the Primera Liga table, 16 points behind leaders Barcelona.

But club president Juan Bautista Soler said: "In principle the coach's job is not under threat. I have said that on 30 June we will evaluate the season as a whole and take any decisions then. To act before then could have a negative effect on the team."