Stokes Snr: the fans are on Anthony's back

The father of striker Anthony Stokes - also the player's agent - has accused Sunderland supporters of affecting his son's form.

In an interview with the Irish Sun, John Stokes said he felt some supporters were "willing" Anthony to make a mistake. "He's afraid to make a mistake, because he feels like he can't get away with it. People are almost willing him to make a mistake, for some reason.

"He seems to get booed at every Sunderland game", Stokes Snr continued. "He was booed against Derby when he came on - and then he went on to score the winner.

"At a game against Birmingham last year, I had to leave because of the abuse he was getting - it's not right".