by kopper » Thu Feb 26, 2004 8:37 pm
Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has slammed the hate mob that is currently coordinating a campaign against Reds boss Gerard Houllier.
Liverpool's Melwood training ground has been subjected to graffiti attacks and the England full back has now registered his disgust at the vandalism that read: 'Hope you die of Aids, Houllier.'
The Liverpool-born defender has issued an emotive plea for the club's supporters to show understanding towards the charismatic Frenchman, whatever their feelings regarding his abilities as a manager.
''Just remember - he almost lost his life trying to make this club great again,'' Carragher told The Daily Mail. ''Whatever you think of Gerard Houllier as a manager, he has gone through an awful lot for this club and has brought us a long way.
''The reason for his heart trouble was that he was working too hard. Anyone who was around then could see that.
''I can't think of a manager who works harder, so to subject him to this sort of stuff is out of order.''
Liverpool supporters have become increasingly disgruntled by the club's inability to mount a championship challenge and last weekend's tepid FA Cup exit, has seen the under-fire boss receive this latest barrage of abuse.
Carragher appreciates that supporters have the right to voice their concerns, but this latest act of abuse has drawn only contempt from the man who credits Houllier as being the major influence on his career.
''Fans are entitled to voice their frustrations, but it's overstepping the mark when you get abuse like we saw at the training ground,'' declared Carragher.
''That was unacceptable. There are a few of us who owe him a lot. For instance, I have got five or six winners' medals I would not have got without him.''
Interviewer: 'Would it be fair to describe you as a volatile player?'
David Beckham: 'Well, I can play in the centre on the right and occasionally on the left side.' (Man U)