Mourinho slams FA Cup scheduling

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has expressed his frustration with the scheduling of his side's FA Cup quarter-final clash with Chelsea.

The Red Devils advanced to the last-16 of the Europa League and will have to play the two legs either side of the FA Cup game against Chelsea, which has been scheduled for March 13.

Despite the congested schedule, Mourinho added that he will not field a weakened team against the Blues because that would disrespect the FA Cup.

"Of course and I feel really surprised that the decision is made before our draw in Europe," Mourinho told the press when asked if the scheduling could hinder his team.

"Because in this moment nobody knows where we play, nobody knows where the first and second matches are.

"Imagine we play Chelsea on Monday and then we have to go to the second match in Europe in Russia, Turkey or Greece.

"I think once more the interests, they go in front of the clubs and English football's interests, and nobody cares about it. But this is what I have."

He added: "I cannot play against Chelsea with the under-21s like Manchester City did last year. I cannot do that — we are Manchester United.

"I don't do that as Manchester United manager. I don't do that to the FA Cup because the FA Cup is not guilty of these decisions.

"The FA Cup is beautiful, the competition is historical. I have to treat Manchester United supporters and the FA Cup in the right way."