This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
On June 22, 2020, Jose Mourinho responded to criticism from television pundit Paul Merson regarding Harry Kane's form under his playing style at Tottenham Hotspur.
According to Merson, Kane would consider switching clubs if Mourinho continued adopting a conservative style in the Premier League, as seen in their 1-1 draw with Manchester United last week.
However, Mourinho argued that Merson was wrong to judge Kane based on one game, citing the England striker's impressive goal-scoring record under his tenure.
"The record of goals that Harry has with me (in charge) is easy for you to see... I can say I had a few strikers who played for me and they are not bad," Mourinho told reporters in a virtual news conference.
He then went on to mention the likes of Didier Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Diego Milito, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, highlighting their goal-scoring stats under his tenures at various clubs.
"So dear Paul, I have lots of respect for you," Mourinho added. "I think Harry Kane has no problems at all to score goals in my teams, especially when he's fit, when he's fresh, and he has routines of playing."
There was also good news on the injury front for Mourinho, as he confirmed that forward Lucas Moura was available after recovering from an injury, and Dele Alli was also in contention after serving his one-match suspension.
"For the first time since I arrived, all six attacking players are available for the game," Mourinho said. "I've had matches with only one and now finally I have six so I can have people playing and on the bench to rotate players. Our attacking options for this match are really good."
