Jose Mourinho’s gestures before Newcastle United and Benfica got their Champions League fixture underway on Tuesday were extremely classy.
Newcastle United are looking to put Saturday’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League behind them on Tuesday as they return to Champions League action.
Eddie Howe’s side take on Benfica at St. James’ Park and are looking to build on their 4-0 thrashing of Union Saint Gilloise last time out.
Jose Mourinho is the man in charge of the Portuguese giants and the legendary manager has spoken highly of Newcastle ahead of the game.
Mourinho’s connection with Newcastle hero Sir Bobby Robson has added an extra layer of emotion to the fixture, and the legendary manager was in a cheerful mood ahead of kick-off.
Jose Mourinho holds out his hand at St. James' Park.
Photo by Alex Livesey – Danehouse/Getty Images
Jose Mourinho appreciates Newcastle United legend Les Ferdinand
Mourinho has been a box office attraction for well over 20 years, so the cameras are never far away when he’s in town.
However, there was none of his classic bullishness ahead of kick-off on Tuesday night, with Mourinho instead spotted making some classy gestures.
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The one that will bring a smile to Newcastle fans the most was his appreciation for club legend Les Ferdinand.
The iconic striker is on punditry duty for TNT Sports and met Mourinho on the touchline ahead of the game. The Benfica boss was spotted in a video smiling and embracing Ferdinand.
Additionally, TNT Sports cameras spotted Mourinho spending time with the children serving as mascots for the game in the tunnel, taking the time to shake hands and say hello.
Finally, he embraced a member of Newcastle staff also in the tunnel before heading out to the pitch.