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Fans deserve better - Southgate
Middlesbrough, 10:44, October 24, 2008 ,
Gareth Southgate wants a performance full of pride for the supporters when Middlesbrough travel to Blackburn on Saturday.
The Boro boss was unhappy with the display from his players in last week's 5-0 home thrashing against Chelsea and wants a response this weekend at Ewood Park to get the fans back on side.
Southgate was impressed with the way the Boro faithful stuck by the side, despite a painful Riverside defeat, and is now looking to return the favour.
He said: "There possibly is work to be done to win back our fans. We will continue to do our work for the local community.
"But in the end, fans leave either happy or disgruntled by the performances on the pitch.
"I understand it was a long afternoon but I thought they stayed with us remarkably considering the performance we gave."
Meanwhile, Southgate feels a trip to Blackburn offers his side a good opportunity to bounce back from last week's disappointment and wants a display similar to the one which resulted in three points at Wigan on October 4.
He added: "They finished above us in the last couple of years so they are a team we're looking to overcome. They are similar to us in finances and provide a good benchmark to see where we are at.
"A win at Blackburn could put us in the top ten so we shouldn't panic. We have to accept the flak from the fans but one good win puts us back on track.
"I can sit here and say what I like but we'll be judged by what we do on Saturday - that has to be a good one.
"Wins against Chelsea, United, Arsenal give everyone a huge boost in confidence.
"But the games against the teams close to you in the League are the ones you really need to win. There has to be a bit of perspective on the Chelsea defeat - without dodging it."