Mourinho: Man United are fighting for the title

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has insisted that, despite missing four of their first-team regulars, Manchester United will not be weakened ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

United head to Chelsea on the back of six consecutive victories, but will be missing Phil Jones, Michael Carrick, Marcos Rojo and Daley Blind for the match.

"I disagree. Their squad is amazing," said Mourinho.

"Every week, on a big screen, I have their squad and all their options. I realise what they have and it's amazing.

"Van Gaal is fantastic at developing kids. I went to QPR with Drogba and no strikers on the bench and for a long time because of suspensions - some of them YOUR suspensions because you [TV] decide who is to be suspended."

The Portuguese has also praised his Dutch counterpart, and ex-Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata, ahead of the tussle, as the Blues look to stretch their lead at the top of the Premier League.

He added: "He (Van Gaal) is a big, big friend. Because we are in the same League, we don't speak every week.

"They are fighting for the title.

"I have no thoughts on Juan Mata. He is a player with an history in this club, everyone has respect for him as a player.

"If things are going well, everyone is happy for him. He is a very correct boy and a great professional."