Charlton fans are regarded as among the friendliest in football, but
try telling that to Kevin Lisbie.
The Jamaican striker is sick of being booed by his own supporters
and fears it could damage his career.
Lisbie has long been a target of the Charlton boo-boys but at the
start of this season the howls of derision seemed to spread to the
entire stadium. On being substituted after 78 minutes of Charlton's
opening-day defeat to Manchester City the home fans roared in
disapproval.
The 24-year-old claims to have no idea why he is being targeted but
it could be because his finishing has failed to develop with the rest
of his game.
Lisbie said:
"I've been getting booed since the first game. I've no idea why.
Maybe they think I'm the worst player on the pitch. The crowd started
80 minutes into the season and it was almost like they'd been waiting
for the opportunity. It was very hurtful, particularly given the fact
I've been here for seven years. I don't know if it will stop but I
hope it does."
After the Manchester City debacle, Lisbie was rested for his own
good and has responded in a positive way.
In a difficult week for the club, marred by Jason Euell's row with
Alan Curbishley, the Hackney-born forward regained some confidence by
scoring in the 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa and in Tuesday's Carling Cup
victory over Luton.
He said:
"I'm happy to be playing and scoring again. The manager told me I was
left out to keep me out of the way of the fans, but what was more
disappointing was being booed in the first place. I've been here
seven years and they gave me 80 minutes."
He added:
"I've played well now in the last couple of games and hope I've done
enough to get a start. I always work hard and am desperate to play in
the Premiership."
Curbishley stressed this week that his problem with Euell has been
resolved and Lisbie is adamant that team morale is high. He added:
"There are little arguments at every club between managers and
players, but this has been blown out of all proportion."

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