Cardiff boss Omer Riza needs to shut his gob after slagging off his own fans in a mental rant.
Riza's Clueless Rant
The Bluebirds gaffer had the audacity to call some of the club's supporters 'clueless' during his pre-match press conference. What a mug!
Riza is preparing to take his team to face promotion-chasing Sheffield United on Good Friday, with Cardiff currently in the Championship relegation zone and just one point from safety with four games left. No wonder he's feeling the heat!
The under-fire boss addressed the criticism he's faced ahead of the match, telling reporters: "I do read comments, I read all the comments from fans and unfortunately a lot of them are clueless." What a bellend!
Obviously trying to backtrack, Riza then claimed there are a lot of 'good fans' despite his remarks. Too little, too late, mate.
Backlash from Supporters
Unsurprisingly, his comments were met with an instant backlash on social media. The Cardiff City Supporters Trust released a statement, saying: "Comments that fans are clueless are both disappointing and disrespectful given the need for everyone to be pulling in the same direction as Cardiff City battles to avoid relegation."
The statement continued: "Given the club's precarious position, the manager, indeed any manager, should expect to receive criticism from fervent supporters who are passionate about the future of our club. We hope Omer will reflect on his ill-judged comments."
Riza's rant came after supporters made their feelings known following Saturday's home defeat to Stoke. Despite being the club's first loss in six matches, it extended their winless run to four. Not good enough, mate.
Relegation Battle
Cardiff's remaining fixtures include a visit from relegation rivals Oxford United on Easter Monday. The Bluebirds are at risk of dropping into the third tier for the first time in 22 bloody years.
Riza was appointed as manager in December after three months as caretaker boss. The 45-year-old had previously been Erol Bulut's assistant before the Turkish coach was sacked eight games into the season.
Despite winning four of his first seven matches in caretaker charge, Riza has been unable to pull Cardiff away from the relegation battle. Since becoming permanent boss, he's won just five of their subsequent 24 league fixtures. Time to pack your bags, Riza!
