Mourinho remains a Drogba fan

Inter boss plays down reports linking him with his former striker

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 29th November 2008

Mourinho remains a Drogba fan

Drogba: Uncertain future

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Jose Mourinho admits Didier Drogba 'is like a son' but insists he is not trying to sign him.

The Chelsea striker has been repeatedly linked with Mourinho's current charges, Inter Milan, in recent weeks.

Reports have suggested that Inter director Marco Branca has met with the player's representatives in regards to a possible switch to Italy.

Mourinho concedes that he is a fan of the Ivorian hit-man, but is adamant that no approach will be made while the African ace is under contract at Stamford Bridge.

Crazy

"It is easy for me to talk about him, because he is like a son to me," said the Portuguese coach.

"I remember every moment we spent together: from when I wanted him at Chelsea and he first arrived at Stamford Bridge, to the cup final at Wembley when he hugged me before his team-mates, seeking me out like crazy in the locker room.

"But it is also difficult for me to talk about him, because he is a Chelsea player, he has a contract with them and can choose between many different teams when he wants to leave."

Rapport

Mourinho also believes that he is fully stocked in the attacking department at present, with no desire to bring in fresh firepower.

"We have a tricky situation here, as we have (Hernan) Crespo, (Julio) Cruz, Adriano and (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic," he added.

"I understand that when there is talk of his (Drogba) unhappiness at the Blues, Inter's name will inevitably come out.

"That is down to the rapport that exists between us, but there is nothing else in it. I hope he rediscovers joy and happiness and that he can play at his level."