Hammers cult hero Carlton Cole has hit out at so-called fans who abused West Ham star Vladimir Coufal on social media.
As reported by Hammers News this morning, Czech defender Coufal deleted a social media post following the 1-1 draw at Southampton after receiving abuse from supporters.
The result left many Hammers fans and manager David Moyes frustrated.
The east Londoners had enough opportunities to win three games but it took a special strike from Declan Rice to save the day after the officials had somehow allowed Southampton’s opener to stand.
With huge defensive problems, Moyes was forced to start all four of his senior first team fullbacks in the same team. And Coufal started at right wingback.
West Ham’s fan favourite Czech defender is one of several players struggling to rediscover their best form.
Coufal himself would probably be the first to admit that.
The fullback, along with Aaron Cresswell, was guilty of wasting numerous crosses, too often hitting the defender or failing to pick out a teammate.
But, as ever, Coufal gave his all for the team with his attitude and desire never in question.
So what happened to him after the match left a bitter taste.
Coufal deleted a social media post after abuse from so-called West Ham fans but real supporters rallied behind him.
Just a few months ago the defender was being hailed a cult hero after unforgettably walking head-on through thousands of Eintracht Frankfurt fans who had invaded the pitch after our Europa League semi-final defeat in Germany just to applaud and thank the travelling Hammers support.
But after posting a message about the Saints game on Twitter, Coufal was abused by a minority of so-called West Ham fans.
And the cruel messages clearly affected Coufal as he deleted his post.
We all have our opinions on players and part of football is discussing and debating them.
But to actually target a player who has been a leading figure, on and off the pitch, in West Ham’s resurgence from pathetic relegation candidates to a genuine European outfit is bang out of order.
The great thing about West Ham, though, is that the Hammers family will always have their players’ backs.
West Ham supporters rallied around the defender, sending Coufal messages of support and posting pictures of him online.
And Cole has now hit out at the so-called fans who abused West Ham star Coufal on social media.
The Hammers Under 16 academy coach and club ambassador spoke out on his own Twitter, condemning the actions of the minority of supporters targeting Coufal.
“Criticism is part and parcel of our game,” Cole said on Twitter alongside a picture of Coufal.
“As players we use it as fuel to do better next time whether we are in form or not.
“Vlad is an honest and hardworking pro that loves to play for West Ham.
“Not once have I seen him not try his best. Abuse over social media is a cowards sport.”
Well said that man!