Leadbitter calls for trust

Midfielder can understand fans' frustrations

Last updated: 30th March 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Leadbitter calls for trust

Leadbitter: Not bothered by boos

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Sunderland midfielder Grant Leadbitter has admitted he can understand supporters' frustrations, although he hopes they trust the players to get the job done.

The Black Cats have been dragged back into the relegation battle after failing to win any of their last five games, and they are now just three points above the drop zone.

Fans have voiced their feelings in recent weeks and Leadbitter concedes the reaction can affect players.

He knows why the supporters are so disappointed but is confident Sunderland can bounce back and secure their top-flight status.

"It hurts when the fans boo but I've got mates in the crowd, they can boo me if they want - I'm not bothered," Leadbitter told The Journal.

"They pay their money, they want their team to do well, so it's fair enough to express their opinion.

"They want to win, we want to win but sometimes we all need to relax a bit more and let the players do what they've been sent out to do."