Mourinho: Referee Taylor has impossible job

Monday's official is from the Manchester area, which has sparked outrage among Reds fans - and Mourinho admits there will be heavy pressure on him

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is concerned it will be "difficult" for referee Anthony Taylor at Anfield amid the criticism of his appointment for Monday's blockbuster Premier League fixture against Liverpool.

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There has been backlash since Taylor was selected to officiate Liverpool's showdown with United due to the fact he is from the Manchester area, a decision which has angered local fans.

And as Mourinho and Co. prepare for a hostile reception in Liverpool, the United boss is worried about Taylor.

"I have my view but I understand and I learned a lesson, if you want to call it that, by being so many times punished by some words," Mourinho said.

"So I don't want to say anything about it.

"I think Mr Taylor is a very good referee but I think somebody with intention is putting such a pressure on him that I feel it will be difficult for him to have a very good performance."

United head to Anfield in seventh position, three points adrift of Liverpool after seven matches.