Mauricio Pochettino explains what happened between Thiago Silva and angry Chelsea fans

Mauricio Pochettino has claimed that angry Chelsea supporters following the full time whistle were being antagonised by opposition fans rather than directing their fury in the direction of players making their way give thanks. Chelsea's away supporters made the journey to the Riverside to see the Blues fall victim to a 1-0 defeat versus Middlesbrough thanks to Hayden Hackney's goal.

That saw a frustrating night for Pochettino and co with the west London side carrying the scoreline through to the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. Chelsea missed a number of big chances to take something more from the game and were toothless in front of goal to leave the team having to overcome a deficet.

Scenes following the full time whistle saw some fans venting their fury as the likes of Thiago Silva, Alfie Gilchrist, Levi Colwill and Armando Broja made their way to the travelling support. The Brazilian veteran, who enjoys a close connection with the Blues faithful, is said to have tempered the mood of some fans.

There appeared to be a mixture of feeling among the contingent as Silva slapped hands with some supporters. Pochettino believes any conflict was with opposition fans in the stand, making their feelings clear following a famous win.

The 51-year-old head coach said in his press conference: «Don't be confused because the fans were reacting to Middlesbrough fans, not with our players, our fans were fantastic with us. I think it was Thiago and some players I listened, they were trying to calm our fans because I think it was a problem between the fans. Not with our fans and players.

»Be careful how you translate to the media or our fans. Don't confuse the people."

Every word Mauricio Pochettino said on Chelsea loss, Maatsen