Everton have urged the FA and Premier League to act over
comments made by Jose Mourinho after the Chelsea boss accused
Toffees striker Andrew Johnson of diving in Sunday's controversial
3-2 victory at Goodison Park.
Mourinho questioned the honesty of the England striker after he
went down in a first-half incident with Chelsea goalkeeper Henrique
Hilario.
Television replays suggested Johnson jumped over the advancing
keeper to avoid a collision, but after the match Mourinho remained
highly critical of the striker's actions.
The Blues boss said: "He's dangerous for opponents because you
cannot trust him, and I was not happy with that.
"I've been in this country for three years now and I am influenced
by your culture. It is a country I admire, I am proud to be part of
it.
"In my country we call them 'intelligent' players. In other
countries you can use different words and are critical."
After the match, Everton manager David Moyes slammed Mourinho for
his comments and a statement on the club's official website has
called for the authorities to take action.
"In the wake of Sunday's Premiership game against Chelsea at
Goodison Park we wish to jointly condemn the post-match comments of
Jose Mourinho relating to Andrew Johnson.
"To publicly question the integrity of a player of Andrew's
professionalism and honesty is not only wholly unacceptable and
quite possibly defamatory but also, in our opinion, highly damaging
for both club and player.
"We would urge the footballing authorities to look closely at Mr
Mourinho's comments and then, perhaps, seek a formal
explanation.
"Both Everton Football Club and Andrew Johnson have always believed
in the virtues of fair play and we would ask Mr Mourinho to
immediately retract his allegations."
