Inter Milan boss Mourinho: I respect Ranieri

Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho insists he has great respect for Roma rival Claudio Ranieri ahead of today's big game.

Both men are former Chelsea managers and have traded barbs through the press over the years.

“I respect Ranieri. It’s true we have had a few run-ins and who knows there could be more in future, but I respect him as a person and as a Coach,” insisted Mourinho.

“We are playing well and getting results despite the problems, but I am not a child and won’t fly to the moon.

“Winning at the last minute is fantastic, but we must prepare for the drama of losing at the last minute too. Character is important and we have it, but it also means staying calm throughout ups and downs.

“History is full of great victories followed by shock defeats. The players must understand we have done nothing and results are ephemeral, so a great team starts every game with the same attitude.

“I realise many were scared in Kiev and so they got very excited, but that euphoria should only last a few minutes.”