Joey Barton delivers his verdict on West Ham United fans’ treatment of David Gold

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West Ham United fans confronted David Gold after a defeat to Swansea City.

Joey Barton has told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, which was broadcast on TalkSPORT on 5th March, that it isn’t nice to see West Ham United owner David Gold getting so much abuse.

Gold was confronted by West Ham fans after his side’s defeat to Swansea City at the weekend.

The co-owner of the Hammers has taken on fierce criticism, with West Ham fans disappointed with their lack of progress over recent years.

And Barton said: “It’s not nice to see, because he’s still getting a bit of flak. If you want someone out, surely you have to have a replacement. Who is going to be the owner or the chairman next down the line? If you’re going to get rid of them surely you’ve got to have a contingency plan in place.

“This is the ugly side of the modern day supporter, they are quite militant in terms of demanding owners leave.

“But the fans are the club, West Ham without the fans aren’t much of a proposition to any potential buyers. They are rightly voicing their frustrations.”

Gold has faced criticism for moving West Ham away from the Boleyn Ground and to the Olympic Stadium.

The 81-year-old has also been scrutinised by supporters for West Ham’s transfer business in recent times.

The Hammers sold Andre Ayew, Jose Fonte and Diafra Sakho last month, and only brought in Joao Mario and Jordan Hugill.

West Ham are still fighting for their Premier League survival, with David Moyes’ side sat just three points above the drop zone.