COCU HITS OUT AT SOCIAL MEDIA ABUSE OF HAMER
PHILLIP Cocu has defended underfire Ben Hamer and described some criticism of the Derby County goalkeeper on social media as “unacceptable”.
Hamer made a crucial error during Saturday’s 3-1 home defeat by Brentford.
The Rams had worked their way back into the Championship contest after falling behind early on to Ollie Watkins’ goal. Jason Knight equalised around the half-hour mark but Derby fell behind again early in the second half when Hamer allowed Said Benrahma’s shot to squeeze under him and over the line.
Benrahma scored a brilliant third goal for Brentford and the defeat, a second in succession, dented Derby’s play-off hopes.
Hamer, who is on loan from Huddersfield Town, has come in for criticism and he deleted his Twitter account at the weekend.
Cocu is not happy with some of the reaction towards Hamer.
“Unfortunately, if a goalkeeper makes a mistake it is very likely it will end up as a goal. All players make mistakes but the way people go at him at the moment is beyond the limits, if you ask me,” said Cocu.
“The abuse, I think social media now is something that is really part of society. You should think, because when you press the button, you cannot get it off. Even if you remove it, it’s still on it. So think before you publish something.
“We have had a few examples in past weeks of people going at players in very bad manners and ways, it is unacceptable. I cannot accept fans, our fans or any fans, going at my goalkeeper in that way.”
Cocu says the Rams’ goalkeeper situation will need to be addressed this summer.
Hamer returns to Huddersfield once the season ends. Kelle Roos has been number two to Hamer, while Scott Carson is on loan with Manchester City, who are keen to keep the England international for next season.
Carson, who is 34, has a year to run on his contract at Derby and all things are pointing to him extending his stay with City.
Asked if the keeper department needs urgent attention going into next season, Cocu said: “Yes, of course, because Ben is on loan. So we will have a look at the position of the goalkeeper.
“We also have a decision to make if Henrich (Ravas), a promising talented goalkeeper, if we keep him here or maybe it would be good for him to go on loan, to get more experience.
“So, yes, decisions have to be made in that position.”