Marti Cifuentes does not want a mindset of bad losers at Leicester City and has informed Abdul Fatawu that it was an inappropriate moment for him to air his grievances on social media.
Fatawu called for stronger protection from referees following City’s 2-1 loss to Hull, the winger sharing photos of a challenge from defender Akin Famewo and the aftermath, showing a small cut on the Ghanaian’s foot.
“We can’t take a chance to get unnecessary injuries,” Fatawu wrote. “This ref needs to take care of us so we can bring our best.”
However, Cifuentes has since spoken to Fatawu and told him his post was misguided. City are currently enduring a spell of just one win in seven matches, and the coach does not want his players venting online but rather turning their irritation into a strong display in the next fixture.
“I think probably it’s a reflection of a young guy being frustrated,” Cifuentes. “Definitely I would say it’s the referee’s job to apply the rules, and as a spectator, you want the best players to be protected.
“But I’ve already spoken with Abdul. I was clear and honest with him that the timing is not the right one. If we were winning 3-0, I’m open to share those kinds of thoughts. I think he was already feeling sorry over the timing of it.
“The timing looks like we are being sore. The disappointment, you need to show it in the next game, in the next action. That’s the kind of culture I want to build. We have to try to be better in everything we do.
“I understand his frustration but it was probably not the best timing.”
Fatawu’s reaction could partly stem from his extended spell on the sidelines. The winger is only a few months into his comeback from an ACL injury.
Cifuentes added: “One of the things we all love, the fans and everybody in the club, is that Abdul is so honest and he has this energy and openness and he expresses this way.
“He’s coming from a long injury. I think refs have a very difficult job but it’s fair we ask them, not just for Abdul but for players everywhere, to be protected from these harsh marks they receive.”