The Reds were chasing the game after Paulo Dybala's first-half effort, but the boss had limiting attacking options on the bench due to injury problems.
Tahith Chong, the talented Under-23s star, was included for the first time in a competitive matchday squad but Jose felt it was not the time to introduce the wiry winger for his debut.
With Alexis Sanchez unavailable due to injury and Marouane Fellaini also sidelined after picking up a problem with Belgium, the boss decided not to make any changes.
“Bear in mind Sanchez was in the stand,” said the manager.