Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says he spent time with Sir Alex Ferguson before kickoff at Manchester United.

A "distraught" Ferguson missed the post-match media conference after their Champions League elimination.

Asked about the no-show, Mourinho said: "I talk to him during the game, but did not have much time. I was fortunate to spend 45 minutes with him before the game, it's always better to spend a nice time chatting and privately."