Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has revealed that he remains pleased with Romelu Lukaku's contribution in attack and claims that the striker should be regarded as "untouchable" from criticism.
After initially scoring 11 goals from 10 appearances, Lukaku has failed to net in five matches and the Belgian international has allegedly been booed by a section of the club's supporters.
However, Mourinho has defended his main summer signing and has suggested that the 24-year-old should not be judged purely on his strike-rate.
The 54-year-old told reporters: "My job is to protect my players and Romelu is one of the players who should be untouchable in terms of respect from everyone. It's not one ball or goal that hits the post or one save from the opposition goalkeeper that can make Romelu's contribution below the top level.
"He is playing well and yes I have to protect my players and Romelu always deserve that because what he does for the team is fantastic and to play football for a striker.
"So for me untouchable in my team and also untouchable in the respect and support he deserves from the fans. But, as I said, the supporters pay for their tickets so [they are free to do as they want]."
Despite his lack of goals, Lukaku has set up two of United's last three efforts in the Premier League.
Darren Plant
