Hammers dismiss Harewood mob attack
Curbishley has won just one game since taking over in December
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Monday, 12, Feb 2007 09:51
West Ham have rubbished reports that striker Marlon Harewood was confronted by angry fans after his penalty miss against Watford on Saturday.
Reports claimed 15 furious supporters surrounded Harewood when he was in his convertible saloon leaving Upton Park after the 1-0 defeat.
Harewood, 27, was reportedly subjected to verbal abuse and finger pointing after sending his spot-kick wide in the second half against the Hornets.
A member of the Hammers' security staff had to intervene so Harewood could make a safe getaway, forcing the struggling club to review players security this week.
But a club spokeswoman said the story had been exaggerated.
"I'm afraid stories of mob fury have been rather exaggerated. Marlon rang the press office today saying he was surprised about how the incident was reported," the spokeswoman said.
"He was in an area where lots of players stop in their cars to sign autographs before taking the main road but inevitably there are a few critics around, too.
"We are certainly not especially worried about players' safety and security there."
The result against Watford was the east London club's fourth straight defeat in all competitions.
Manager Alan Curbishley is hoping for a turnaround in Saturday's must-win clash with Charlton at the Valley, which sees Addicks boss Alan Pardew face his old club for the first time.