Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has declared that it was his success at Stamford Bridge which forced Manchester United, now the defending English and European champions, to up their game.

He said in The Sun, When I was in England, Chelsea was the best team between 2004-06. That is why we won two consecutive Premierships.

Manchester United at that time realised they needed to be better to win it and, in my third season, thats what they did. And they went on to win the Champions League.

That has given them so much confidence. They are certainly a better team now than when I was in England.

Mourinho is now the head coach of Inter, who take on the Red Devils this week in the last 16 of the Champions League.

There is much anticipation surrounding the tactical battle between the Portuguese and Sir Alex Ferguson, both on and off the pitch, as they enjoyed a healthy rivalry during the former's spell in England.

But Mourinho said, I have a great relationship with Sir Alex.

You know during the game it is going to be a real war. But afterwards there is always happiness and we share some time together. I dont want that to change, no matter who wins or loses.

I have so many good memories of facing United. I beat them while with Porto in the last 16, in a Carling Cup semi-final with Chelsea and also at Stamford Bridge to claim our second title.