Herrera seemed to anger the Manchester United boss last week, where he said the players had lacked passion in their shock 2-1 defeat to Huddersfield.
But Mourinho has now set the record straight, lauding the Spain international for comments that showed ‘dignity, character and intelligence.’
“I was surprised but I was happy about his words because it is not easy for the players to recognise and admit [why they lost],” said Manchester United boss Mourinho.
“I was happy because it shows dignity, character and intelligence to know the reason why we lost the match.
“So contrary to some imaginary sources that tell you everything we do here, I can promise you that since that match I didn’t speak one single second about the match, because [there’s] no need.”
Mourinho last week seemed to have a differing view of the situation, blasting Herrera for his words.
The 54-year-old said: “I heard Ander Herrera in the flash interviews said the attitude and desire was poor, oh my God.
“When a player thinks that then I think all players should go to the press conference and explain why because I can’t explain.
“It concerns me of course. If it happened today then why can’t it happen tomorrow?”
United are aiming to secure a winning ways against Tottenham this afternoon (12.30pm).
And Herrera says the Red Devils will ‘make an example’ of Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
“Tottenham are a direct rival every season. In the last two or three years they have improved a lot and they are contenders for everything; the Champions League, the Premier League and for both cups,” the former Athletic Bilbao midfielder said.
“It’s going to be very, very difficult but we play at home in front of our fans and we have to try to win.
“We want to move forward because this club is all about fighting for everything and we are still in four competitions.
“It is a massive game and our fans have to realise we need them on Saturday. We need them to push us to try and win the game because Tottenham are a top team.
“It will be very tough but we have to try and win first of all because Spurs are a direct rival for the title and secondly because we play at home.”