Poch backs Gallagher after high-five slip-up

MAURICIO POCHETTINO has defended Conor Gallagher after he was abused online for failing to acknowledge a high five from a black mascot.

A video clip posted on social media shows the Chelsea skipper in the players’ tunnel before the 2-2 draw against Burnley last Saturday.

Gallagher is seen shaking the hand of a white mascot then tapping the back of the black child, who had his hand in the air for a high five, only to be left hanging (right).

After the clip was put online, the England midfielder’s Instagram was bombarded with abusive comments, including being called a racist.

Pochettino said: “I know Conor. He is a great kid. There was no intention.

“That has upset me so much because no-one wants to do something like this with this intention.

“When you are focused on playing too many things that can happen.

“We give too much attention to these people who like to insult and create a mess. Please stop.

“Who thinks the intention of Conor is to ignore a mascot? Come on.”

Pochettino did issue a warning to his Chelsea flops to snap out of their comfort zone.

The Blues face Manchester United languishing in 12th place after the draw with 10-man Burnley.

And Pochettino admits he has major concerns over some of his young and expensively-assembled squad thinking they have already made it.

Asked if he was worried his players are in their comfort zone, he said: “Yes. I agree. When I was at Espanyol, my first experience as a coach, I was at the training ground at 7am every morning.

“Then Southampton, Tottenham, Paris, the same. After 15 years you can increase your bank account and your money.

“But that cannot put me in a comfortable zone.”