Man Utd News: I feel weaker if I do not have Marouane Fellaini - Jose Mourinho

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Jose Mourinho has claimed he feels 'weaker' without Marouane Fellaini at his disposal.

Fellaini misses simple opportunity against Real Madrid

Fellaini has divided the Manchester United support ever since David Moyes signed him from Everton for £27million four years ago.

Fans remain unconvinced by quite what Moyes, Louis van Gaal and Mourinho see in him.

But Mourinho has insisted that Manchester United are a stronger outfit with him in the squad.

"I feel weaker without Fellaini in my squad, doesn’t matter if it’s on the pitch or on the bench," he said.

"If his conditions are improved, he will be selected, I need him.

"He’s an important player for me - a lot more important than you can imagine."

United go into tomorrow's Champions League clash against Swiss side Basel on the back of a 2-2 draw.

The setback was the first time they have dropped points in the league this season.

But Mourinho still fancies their chances of getting their European campaign off to a flier.

Manchester United Man Utd Marouane FellainiGETTY

Man Utd News: Jose Mourinho loves having Marouane Fellaini in his squad

"Being back in the Champions League is going back to the natural habitat. Manchester United [have been there] season after season," he said.

"For some players there’s the motivation of playing in it for the first time, so we look forward to the match and I hope also Old Trafford feels it in the same way we are feeling.

"We’re strong, playing well and have confidence in ourselves.

"It’s a difficult game tomorrow but we have the quality to win.

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?