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Jose Mourinho praised Romelu Lukaku’s work ethic and slammed United players who can’t match it.

After an explosive start to his United career that saw him plunder 11 goals in his first 10 appearances, Lukaku has scored just once in his last nine games.

Despite that barren run, Mourinho refused to criticise the £75million striker and said he wished more of his players would put as much effort in.

Mourinho did not single out individuals but he has admitted he is unhappy with Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s form while Juan Mata, hooked just after the hour against Brighton on Saturday, was peripheral once again.

(Image: REUTERS) (Image: Gareth Copley)

Asked about the workload on Lukaku, Mourinho said: “In the last minute he was fighting and running back like he was in the first minute.

“The way Romelu wins the corner for the goal, the way he ends the game making tackles in the left-back position, that’s the mentality I want.

“Unfortunately, not every player is the same. Some are capable of going to the limit of their efforts but others, even with a lot of talent, are not able to.”