Alan Irvine: 'We made an impression on Chelsea last season'

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter | 22 November 2014

West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Irvine believes that his side made an impression on Chelsea and Jose Mourinho last season in their controversial draw at Stamford Bridge.

West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Irvine feels that his side got under the skin of Chelsea and manager Jose Mourinho last season.

The Baggies were denied victory in their clash against the Blues at Stamford Bridge last season when Ramires earned a controversial penalty in the last minute to salvage a point for Mourinho's men.

Several West Brom players squared up to Mourinho in the aftermath of the game, which prompted comments from the Portuguese, claiming that the Baggies were a "mickey mouse" club.

Irvine told reporters: "He pokes a few people from time to time. I guess if he's poking you then you've made an impression. It's part of what goes on with some managers, I don't really get involved with all that – the referees, fourth officials.

"When managers of top clubs are having to make little comments about other clubs, then there might just be that little bit of worry there.

"We aren't a mickey mouse club. We're a club that are run extremely well, a club that have fantastic support and you can't be a Premier League club and be a Mickey Mouse club. I don't see an awful lot in it. People say and do things in the heat of the moment and perhaps regret them later."

Chelsea and West Brom face off in their Premier League clash later today at Stamford Bridge.