Pardew apologises for Mido abuse

Report: Tottenham 1-1 West Ham

West Ham boss Alan Pardew has apologised to Tottenham's Mido after he was abused by a section of fans during Saturday's draw at White Hart Lane.

The Egyptian striker, whose goal had put the home side ahead, was taunted by racist chanting by some of the visiting support throughout the London derby.

"It's never nice and I don't approve of it at all. I apologise," said Pardew.

"It is very difficult because it goes on in most games. But that doesn't mean to say we should accept it."

The fans are the heartbeat of this team West Ham boss Alan Pardew

Tottenham boss Martin Jol would not be drawn on the behaviour of the Hammers' fans.

The Dutchman would only say: "The Spurs fans gave Teddy Sheringham a marvellous reception and what West Ham fans do is their responsibility."

Pardew insisted the taunting was, however, not representative of all West Ham supporters and did not tie in with the culture of the club.

"That is not the right image we want to set," said Pardew.

He shares the same sentiments of 95% of West Ham fans From UTA Have your say on 606

"We are in the middle of a multi-racial community and want to portray ourselves as a good young team with good fans.

"The fans are the heartbeat of this team."

Pardew also called for fans to get behind the team and create a positive atmosphere for Sunday's game against Manchester United.

"We need to have an atmosphere in the stadium and I'm going to go out of my way to make sure we create that before we even start," said Pardew.

"So our crowd have to play a part because we will not win this game if they do not."