Striker's father hits out at fans

Last updated : 06 December 2007 By Martyn Bowers
John Stokes claims Sunderland fans have put too much pressure on young shoulders by booing his every move.

"He's afraid to make a mistake, because he feels like he can't get away with it. People are almost willing him to make a mistake, for some reason.

"He seems to get booed at every Sunderland game.

"He was booed against Derby when he came on - and then he went on to score the winner.

"At a game against Birmingham last year, I had to leave because of the abuse he was getting - it's not right".