Jose Mourinho: Carling Cup final "can be special"

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has said that he is expecting a "special" Carling Cup final this afternoon.

Mourinho, who led Chelsea to a Carling Cup final win over Liverpool in 2005, admits that he would not begrudge his old rivals a win on this occasion as he remains on good terms with former Blues and current Reds assistant boss Steve Clarke.

"I believe this can be a really great match," he said. "I think it can be special. Liverpool and Cardiff have a great opportunity of making some history.

"In England, something I love and respect a lot is the fact that lower division clubs have the emotional qualities to face the big teams and beat them. So in that aspect I am supporting the Welsh team, Cardiff.

"But [Liverpool assistant manager] Steve Clarke is a forever friend. So in that sense I am supporting the Reds."

Meanwhile, Mourinho's Madrid continue to lead La Liga with a ten-point cushion.