Jose Mourinho has defended Tottenham Hotspur fans as a collective following the alleged incident against Chelsea.
Blues defender Antonio Rudiger claimed he was racially abused by a section of the home crowd at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the German appeared to indicate he had been targeted with a monkey chant.
Referee Anthony Taylor stopped play after being alerted to the abuse of the Chelsea defender during the second half while the PA system in the stadium warned those in attendance that racist behaviour was interfering with the game.
Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen has apologised to Rudiger on behalf of Tottenham, calling for strong action following the disgraceful incident (The Sun).
Mourinho, speaking at today’s press conference at Hotspur Way ahead of the visit of Brighton on Boxing Day believes that the Spurs fans have been brilliant during his time in charge and one fan should not represent the North London support as a whole.
Mourinho told Football.London: “My message is that it’s not Tottenham fans. One Tottenham fan is not Tottenham fans. Tottenham fans since I’ve been here have been phenomenal, supporting the team, respecting opponents. Incredible behaviour.
“We went to Wolves and it looked like an invasion of Tottenham fans at Molineux. I go in my car to matches, busy street, no problems at all. Great discipline, great behaviour. If I have to say something it’s to the Tottenham supporters to keep doing what they’ve been doing with the team.”
Spurs confirmed yesterday that they have launched an investigation into the incident and will take strong action if anyone in attendance is found guilty.
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