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After reaching the League Cup final and ending his semi-final hoodoo against Liverpool Jose Mourinho was understandably delighted. But almost as sweet as his victory was the return to form of one of his most valued players.
Ramires has been in disappointing form of late, particularly struggling in shock defeats to Tottenham and Bradford City. He has made just six starts for the team this season and had been linked with a move to Juventus.
However the Brazilian’s improved performance in a challenging semi-final was one of the bright moments for the manager. Mourinho told the BBC: “My Ramires is back, that's the second best news of the day. The first to be in the final but to have our Ramires back after weeks of work and sacrifice."
In a combative affair reminiscent of Mourinho’s first spell at Chelsea and his great rivalry with Rafa Benitez’s Liverpool Diego Costa was another player at the centre of proceedings. Costa was at the centre of three bust-ups between the two sides, and on two occasions appeared to stamp on an opponent.
When questioned about the matter Mourinho was more circumspect: "I don't want to speak about decisions and decisions. If I have to speak to something I have to speak to something I know. When a player stops a counter-attack with a handball it's a yellow card, when a player kicks a player in the box it is a penalty. Speak about Costa and the penalty he had, let Costa play his football."
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Costa was denied a penalty after being adjudged to have dived by referee Michael Oliver, though replays suggested Martin Skrtel had made contact with the striker.
However again Mourinho was reluctant to criticise the refereeing, referencing his previous allegations of a “campaign” against his side: "If I speak, people will say Mourinho again. If I speak the FA will try to punish me like they always do, or try. I think it's better for you to do it.”
Though Mourinho was frustrated by the refereeing decisions he also expressed his pleasure in overcoming tough opposition. He said: "This is a new Liverpool team and a very difficult opponent. So I'm even happier because we beat a very good team over two legs.”
