Inter`s Mourinho Plays Down Speculations

The Portuguese launched a wide ranging attack on his rivals and referees on Tuesday and now faces an Italian federation charge.

Outspoken Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho played down speculation about his future on Friday after one of the most difficult weeks in his first season in Italy.

The Portuguese launched a wide ranging attack on his rivals and referees on Tuesday and now faces an Italian federation charge after shocking Serie A and angering fellow managers with the severity of his words.

"In football you never know. You could stay two, three, four, five years, it depends on everything," he told a news conference when asked if he had considered leaving Italy because of the furore.

"But I'm certainly not working so that another coach can come in," added Mourinho, who has constantly bemoaned the media grilling he receives in Serie A.

Champions and league leaders Inter drew 3-3 with AS Roma last weekend when striker Mario Balotelli was accused of diving to win a penalty, prompting Mourinho to defend his player.

A 3-0 defeat at Sampdoria in the Italian Cup semi-final first leg in midweek came ahead of Saturday's difficult league game at Genoa and Wednesday's Champions League clash at Manchester United.

"Angry is not the adjective to define me at this moment. Pride is the right word. I am proud. Of myself," continued the former Chelsea coach, who replaced the sacked Roberto Mancini in June