Ben Foster: Chris Brunt criticism is 'pathetic'

Foster was angry that Brunt was singled out for abuse as supporters showed their fury during Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Everton.

Brunt was replaced by new signing Sebastian Blanco in the second half – a decision that prompted ironic cheers from home fans, who are often critical of the Northern Ireland international.

"It is absolutely ridiculous that somebody who has been an incredible servant to this club for such a long time gets that," said Foster.

"He always gives his all and he's somebody I would always have in the team. It's not needed. It is really silly. It doesn't help at all. It's pathetic, to be honest.

"Brunty is everything we're about. He works his socks off. If he very obviously wasn't putting it in or couldn't be bothered then fair enough, but that's not the case.

"If you're getting ridiculed and abused like that it affects you and there's no need for it. These are our supporters and we need our supporters to support us and not do things like that.

"You can understand frustration but it's not like we're not trying."

Albion were booed off at full-time and Foster said: "It's disappointing. You never want to hear that but I can assure you we're working our socks off and we've got a very good group of players.

"We are definitely a much better team than last season but it's just not going for us at the minute."

Brunt, who signed a new contract in the summer, received similar treatment from fans during a New Year's Day defeat to Fulham in 2013.

On Saturday, he booted a water bottle and threw down his tracksuit top in anger after making his way to the bench.

Boss Alan Irvine said: "I've asked him to be honest and he's bitterly disappointed.

"But players, coaches and managers know that at times you won't get the kind of reception that you're hoping for and you've got to be mentally strong enough to cope with that.

"Chris is a vastly experienced player who will be extremely disappointed by the result. I'm sure he's strong enough to cope."