Pundit backs Richarlison amid latest Tottenham controversy – ‘for god’s sake’
Alex McLeish has defended Richarlison amid criticism for showboating as Tottenham beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 on Sunday (28 August).
The former Aston Villa and Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insists it is the attacker’s job to entertain.
As shown on Sky Sports (28 August), the Brazil international began showboating by doing keepy uppys late in the second half of Spurs’ 2-0 win over Forest.
The forward was subsequently wiped out by Brennan Johnson who earned himself a booking in the process.
After the game, speaking to Sky Sports, Forest boss Steve Cooper claimed “I wouldn’t want my players doing that” when asked about the flashpoint.
McLeish can’t believe the reaction to Richarlison’s antics.
“For god’s sake,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Ben Wild.
“After everything everyone has gone through over the last couple of years, the world has been on its knees for four or five years and we are moaning about a guy doing keepy ups?
“Okay, he tried to take the mickey out of his opponents and for that he gets clattered. I have seen it happen back in the day.
“Listen, it’s entertaining. You are here to entertain these crowds. Richarlison is an exciting player, running with the ball, scoring goals, he’s brilliant in the air.
“So he does that and now he is the big bad wolf. I believe we have to see a wee bit of humour in the game.“
Richarlison provided the assist for Harry Kane’s second goal against Forest.
This was his first goal involvement as a Spurs player.
In other news, a Tottenham expert has issued ‘£20m’ Joe Rodon claim after what he’s heard from Rennes fans.