Chelsea's newest signing, Emanuel Emegha, was left "devastated" at the weekend as Strasbourg fans appeared to turn on the striker after his switch to Stamford Bridge was confirmed. Emegha is the club's captain but, as he collected his Player of the Month award before his side faced Le Havre, supporters booed him, before unveiling a provocative banner.
Emegha on the move
Emegha was announced as Chelsea's latest signing last week, with the Blues reaching a pre-agreement for his signature ahead of next summer. However, the Strasbourg striker appears to have alienated his own fanbase since agreeing to move to west London, as he was roundly booed by supporters during the collection of his Player of the Month award before their Ligue 1 fixture against Le Havre.
AdvertisementAFPFans make feelings clear
Supporters did not only subject their captain to boos and whistles, they also unveiled a banner, reading: "Emegha, pawn of BlueCo. After changing shirt, give back your captain's armband." BlueCo own both Chelsea and Strasbourg.
Liam Rosenior defends his striker
Liam Rosenior, the former Hull City defender, is Strasbourg's manager, and revealed his displeasure at how the club's fans behaved.
He said: "Emanuel Emegha was devastated, and I was too.
"I am very disappointed by what I saw, seeing a banner against one of last season's best players is unacceptable. My players deserve much better. They have an impeccable attitude and do not deserve this treatment. This is a pivotal season in which we will be playing in the European Cup, but it seems that a minority are unhappy with our performances.
"It won't change anything because I remain very proud of my players and Emanuel Emegha will remain captain as long as he is here. It must be emphasised that this does not concern everyone, but only a minority."
AFPMore goals to come?
Emegha has scored a total of 26 goals in 64 first-team games for Strasbourg and is currently recovering from an injury layoff. His side are next in action against Paris FC on Sunday.
