Swansea vs. Chelsea: Key Jose Mourinho Comments from Pregame Presser

Chelsea continue to lead the Premier League, but their edge has shrunk as Manchester City made a charge toward the top. Manager Jose Mourinho touched on a wide range of topics during his pre-match press conference as the side looks to reopen the gap against Swansea City on Saturday.

The outspoken boss continued to rant against the way he perceives his side has been treated in recent weeks, dating back to the brief lull around New Year's Day. Miguel Delaney of ESPN passed along his latest comments on the subject:

He was also asked about the reports claiming he told official Phil Dowd he was "too fat to referee," as reported by John Cross of the Mirror. Sam Wallace of The Independent notes he mostly evaded the question but didn't deny saying it:

The focus then shifted to the January transfer window. As far as the Blues go, he didn't rule out making moves, but the club provided remarks in which he states he'd be happy if the squad stays the same:

Mourinho also took direct aim at City following the addition of Wilfried Bony. Henry Winter of The Telegraph showcased the comments, which show the manager doesn't believe there's truly a level playing field:

He also talked about the challenge Swansea continue to pose, according to Bridge News:

The Chelsea boss also discussed the lack of protection for Eden Hazard, as Ben Dinnery of ESPN showed:

Delaney provided further remarks from Mourinho on the subject:

On the injury front, Kristof Terreur of Het Laatste Nieuws noted Thibaut Courtois is considered fit to play, although he may not be back to full strength:

And finally, Mourinho had some praise for John Terry, per Winter:

Given the fact City have closed the deficit between the sides and continue to add talent, Chelsea's margin for error is slim. These are the type of matches—on the road against a midtable club—that could ultimately decide their fate.

The press conference was simply more of the same from Mourinho. He's always going to say whatever is on his mind. There's no filter. While it certainly adds to the entertainment value, everything should always be taken with a grain of salt.