Mauricio Pochettino addresses Raheem Sterling boos after FA Cup win

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has sent a message to fans after crowds at Stamford Bridge aimed boos at Raheem Sterling on Sunday.

Chelsea opened the scoreline in the 13th minute, but then a missed penalty from Raheem Sterling just 13 minutes later altered the tone for the remainder of the game.

Crowds were quick to show their emotion towards the player, aiming angry boos towards the winger before cheering when he was later substitued.

Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino shared his frustrations around the negative reactions, telling fans they need to support players.

When asked about the boos towards Sterling, Pochettino told: «We need to support him, he's an amazing player.

“He has more than 10 years experience in the Premier League. Of course I think the contribution was good. He was a little bit unlucky with some actions where he should have scored. But we are a team and we need to be there for everyone.”

»Fans are entitled to show their emotion. For us we try to emphasise with our fans not to criticise.

«They want the best for our team and players. But we are in a project. We need support and to really believe. We are trying to build something.

»We are in a process to build the team. I know really well how to manage. What the fans want is to win the game and that we achieved. What the fans want is to go to Wembley and that we achieved. They need to trust me to manage in the way I think is the best way for the club.

«We need to respect their opinion as much as they need to respect my decision.»

Chelsea's victory sees them progress to the final four of the FA Cup, where they will face holders Manchester City at Wembley Stadium. They return to action when they host Burnley in the Premier League on March. 30

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