Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho believes the point taken from his side’s 1-1 draw with league leaders Manchester United was a point gained for the reigning champions.
Mourinho said: “United lost a big, big chance to open up six-point lead.
“We’re not top like we want to be but three points is just one weekend. It’s a better result for us than them.
“If I was in that (United’s) position I would be very frustrated, because you are at home and you have a big chance to open the gap and don’t, so I feel maybe they are frustrated with that.”
Mourinho singled out Ricardo Carvalho for praise after the Portuguese defender earned Chelsea a point with a second half equaliser.
“Ricardo Carvalho was the man of the match and I want to dedicate the result to the medical department.
“They did an unbelievable job to get him fit for this match and sometimes people don’t remember these people at the club.”
Mourinho also congratulated referee Howard Webb for his performance.
“Webb did his job well. He had a good game and I think this is what people around the world want to see – a lot of good players and a lot of respect.”
“I think the result is deserved because in the first half they were the best team and they scored, and in the second half Chelsea were best team.
“When the game had finished I exchanged quick words with Sir Alex and we agreed the result was very, very fair.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson appeared more disappointed than Mourinho.
“It was a big opportunity for us but we didn’t get the breaks,” said Ferguson.
“I think Edwin Van der Sar had Carvalho’s header covered but these things happen in football.
“We knew they were going to change and for a little spell we started to sit off them a bit.
“They didn’t make any chances but we should have been a bit more positive.
“But the most important thing is that we have proved we deserve to be in top place in the league.
“I am pleased at the performance and the effort they made.”
