‘It’s not easy to get pelters right at your face’ – James Maddison reveals awkward confrontation with Tottenham fans
JAMES MADDISON admits it was difficult to front up to Tottenham fans following their defeat to Chelsea.
The midfielder and his team-mates were showered with criticism by Spurs fans after Thursday night’s 1-0 loss at Stamford Bridge, their 16th of the season.
But the England international insists Ange Postecoglou‘s troops – who are languishing in 14th in the Prem table – had to face the music.
He told Sky Sports: “I think it’s still important that we go over and show our appreciation for them
“Even though we’re not getting a nice reception. Let’s put it that way.
“That’s why I still walk over there, I think they deserve that.
“Even though it’s not easy to go over and get pelters right at your face.
“But like I said, they pay their money, they travel all over for us and we’re just as disappointed as they are.”
Spurs could end the season on a high if they lift the Europa League trophy next month.
And Maddison has urged the Spurs faithful to get behind over the next few weeks.
He said: “It can still be a super special season if we lift silverware. We’re in the quarterfinal.
“We’re two fixtures away from a European final, so it can still be a very special season.
“The message would be: Just stick with us. We need them as much as they need us.
“Again, they probably don’t want to be listening to me right now after another defeat in the league.
“That’s fine, but I have to answer your questions. So just try and stick together, I guess.”
Spurs will be back in action on Sunday afternoon, welcoming Championship-bound Southampton to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.