The cry rang out on January 1; a warmly familiar sound, like the chimes of Big Ben or the singing of Auld Lang Syne. Jose Mourinho, pouting and paranoid, was cursing the wicked injustices and sinister incompetence of referees. A new year but an old, old whine. The occasion of the latest protest was Chelsea’s emphatic 5-3 defeat at Tottenham. The target could have been anybody with a whistle, but this time the honour fell to Phil Dowd. Early in the match, Dowd had declined to award a penalty when the Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen appeared to handle. The decision was patently honest yet probably mistaken. No matter; Mourinho had identified his excuse and, as the Tottenham goals began to overwhelm his inept defenders, the Chelsea manager went through his objectionable routine.
@highlight
Jose Mourinho targeted referee Phil Dowd after 5-3 defeat to Tottenham
@highlight
Chelsea boss believed his side should have been award first half penalty
@highlight
Can't rid himself of desire to bully and demean those who stand in his way
@highlight
Steven Gerrard's departure will leave a chasm at Liverpool
@highlight
Interesting times ahead at Crystal Palace after Alan Pardew appointment
The great football clubs revere their finest players, but at @placeholder they cherish their legends more dearly than most.