Mourinho explains Mkhitaryan omission with "doubts in air"January 16, 2018 - 10:20 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has admitted he dropped Henrikh Mkhitaryan for the clash against Stoke because of speculation about his future, The Sun reports. The Manchester United winger is being linked with a number of clubs - including Arsenal as part of a deal for Alexis Sanchez. And Old Trafford chief Mourinho claimed he was trying to "protect" the Armenian by leaving him out. He said: "I would lie if I said it was a pure tactical decision. “I don’t think it’s easy for a player to play when there are doubts about his future. "It’s best for him and us, while doubt is in air, to protect him." Mkhitaryan was all smiles as he arrived at the Lowry Hotel ahead of the game, as Anthony Martial turned up late in a taxi on his own. But the Frenchman, also linked with the Gunners, started as United took an early lead through Antonio Valencia. Photo. PA:PRESS ASSOCIATION Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |