Former Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has expressed his belief that Jose Mourinho remains the 'Special One' despite his struggles at Stamford Bridge last season.
The Portuguese coach has had a challenging start to life at Manchester United, but is currently enjoying a run of 15 Premier League games unbeaten.
And Ivanovic, who left Chelseafor Zenit St Petersburg in Januaryafter nine years with the club, has backed Mourinho to succeed with the Red Devils.
"They call Mourinho the Special One, and I think he is," Ivanovic toldSport Express. "If you win, his trust knows no bounds. He will make you fulfil the potential you were not even aware of.
"Training was unique under Mourinho. He sometimes plays mind games with the press, but when it comes to the most important things, the matches themselves, he is always very serious. If you want to play for Mourinho, you have to follow his demands.
"Mourinho helps to develop the best qualities - professional and personal. You can't be indifferent to him. You either love him or hate him. That's what makes him special. I am glad that I had a chance to work with him."
Ivanovic made over 350 appearances for Chelsea following his arrival from Lokomotiv Moscow in 2007.
He scored an impressive 34 goals during his spell at Stamford Bridge, and perhaps even more impressively, picked up 34 assists.
John Terry wrote in tribute to Ivanovic on Instagram following his departure:An unbelievable defender for us over the years and a great and big character and presence in the dressing room. Good luck mate. Won everything at Chelsea and a proper legend.�