Julian Speroni has defended Crystal Palace fans after Pape Souare had his shirt thrown back at him following the 4-1 defeat to Bristol City.

Supporters were incensed following the Eagles’ embarrassing Carabao Cup thrashing on Tuesday.

And left-back Souare, who was making his second appearance since returning from a life-threatening car crash, threw his shirt into the crowd at full-time, only to have it tossed back at him.

But club legend Speroni sympathises with Palace’s frustrated fans.

The goalkeeper said: “I understand the frustration because we are not picking up results and especially after a score like that, it is always tough for the fans.

“And they show their emotions in different ways and we have to respect that. I know Papa, I know he did it with the best intentions and he's a great guy.

“But we have to understand the frustrations of the fans in the heat of the moment. We can't blame anyone for doing something, it's a reaction.

“We need to make sure we are together as a unit. That's the only way you can get out of trouble when you're in these kind of situations.”