Jose Mourinho insists he “likes the feeling” of visiting St James’ Park, which he describes as Sir Bobby Robson’s “home” - but admits he is unsure why he has failed to win many games at Newcastle United in the Premier League.
The Portuguese manager won at the Magpies' famous ground for the first time in the top flight last July, when his Spurs side ran out 3-1 victors.
On seven previous league visits to St James’ Park across two spells as Chelsea manager, as well as his time at Old Trafford, Mourinho had never tasted success in Newcastle.
This season saw the two sides share the spoils in a 2-2 draw thanks to Joe Willock's late equaliser - in what turned out to be his penultimate game as Tottenham manager.
During his time as Sir Bobby’s translator at Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona, Mourinho developed a close relationship with the former Newcastle manager - and clearly the Man United boss still holds the Magpies legend in the highest esteem.
“It’s true. I think it’s the only stadium in the Premier League [where I have such a bad record],” Mourinho said last season.
“Also Huddersfield, but Huddersfield we played there only once. I think it’s difficult, honestly.
“I always felt beautiful matches at St James’ Park, but difficult matches. I like to go there. I like the feeling of going to Mr Robson’s home. I like that feeling.
“I like the stadium, I think the stadium is really nice. I like the atmosphere. They are a good, enthusiastic crowd. I like the Geordies and I like to go there.
“But I couldn’t win - I lost and drew a few times, but didn’t win."
