Mauricio Pochettino wants Tottenham fans to stop booing Emmanuel Adebayor

http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jan/23/tottenham-pochettino-fans-booing-adebayor

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Mauricio Pochettino has urged Tottenham Hotspur fans to stop booing Emmanuel Adebayor, for the sake of the team.

After nine weeks out through injury, illness and family issues, the forward returned to action as a second-half substitute in last weekend’s 2-1 win against Sunderland.

Adebayor’s comeback was not universally welcomed, though, as a section of the White Hart Lane crowd jeered his introduction – a reaction he received once again when leaving the field in Wednesday’s Capital One Cup semi-final against Sheffield United.

That reception appears to be fallout from his comments in November suggesting Spurs would rather play away due to the pressure being put on them, compounding a perceived lack of interest from the highly-paid striker. However, Pochettino says the booing has to stop if Tottenham are to enjoy a successful campaign.

“I think this is the best because all players need to feel the support from the stands from our supporters,” he said. “I think it’s better for him and for the team. We always need to create a great atmosphere to try to get success.”

Adebayor captained the side against the Blades and could do again when Leicester arrive in the FA Cup on Saturday, depending on whether Younès Kaboul or Hugo Lloris feature.

Nacer Chadli remains absent on compassionate grounds for the fourth-round match, although Érik Lamela, the club-record signing, is back in the fold after a calf complaint.