Mourinho hails Fabregas and Ramires

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Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was quick to praise midfield duo Ramires and Cesc Fabregas, who both played important roles in the 2-1 win over Liverpool despite not being fully fit.

Neither player looked at their best, but Fabregas, who was nursing a hamstring injury, played a key defensive role throughout.

And Ramires, who has been struggling with an abductor problem, ran himself ragged before tiring and being taken off after the interval.

“I know every player was fantastic and some were brilliant, but I give you Ramires and Fabregas,” Mourinho said after a second successive victory at Anfield.

“They both had injuries but risked everything to play and help. Ramires has been in trouble for a while but knew we needed him.

“Fabregas is a fantastic professional. He put himself on the line. He gambled, we all gambled.

“Maybe I will lose them for a match or two but this game wasn’t in two or three weeks, it was today.

“This was the game. They put themselves there for the team because the spirit is fantastic.”

And Mourinho said Fabregas’ participation means he will not be available to play for Spain, although he will link up with the squad.

“He can’t play for Spain. He can go but he will come back,” Mourinho explained.

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