Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has stood up for Jose Mourinho after the Real Madrid coach came under fire for his antics against Barcelona last month.
The 48-year-old manager faced criticism after appearing to poke Barcelona assistant Tito Vilanova in the eye during a spat between the two Spanish giants in the Supercopa.
Despite his behaviour, Ferguson believes it is simply in his “nature” to act out in this way.
"I don't find anything wrong with his enthusiasm," Ferguson told Corriere Dello Sport.
"When I was younger I showed more enthusiasm on the bench too. I was always gesticulating and directing.
"It's Mourinho's nature to be agitated. People recognise his enthusiasm. The fans understand that he's fighting for them and for the squad.”
Meanwhile, the Red Devils take on their first Champions League Group C opponents Benfica in Lisbon on Wednesday, September 14.
