Cut out the abuse: Vitriolic attacks on bosses by fans are unacceptable, says Curbishley

Curbishley was more concerned about the attacks on Avram Grant, who takes Chelsea to Upton Park tomorrow — after death threats against him and a sinister package sent to the training ground — and other managers who have been publicly vilified Curbishley said: "I'll take it on the chin if it's relevant and if I can do something about it. But you do have to have a crash helmet on to be able to handle that side of it.

"You get things going on in football matches now that you don't enjoy. I'm not saying it about me personally but I know of instances where managers are getting it and it's poor.

"The League Managers' Association have been looking into that and thinking of ways to try to stop it. Things like chants from the crowd.

"It has become more prevalent and it seems people can say what they like to managers. Then there's things like packages sent to Chelsea — that's the world we're in at the moment."

Curbishley was subjected to some abuse from West Ham fans last Saturday at Craven Cottage, who were upset with what they perceived to be negative tactics. West Ham beat Fulham 1-0 and are only seven points off the European places.

Curbishley observed: "There was a marvellous moment last season when we clinched survival at Old Trafford, then we had a situation at Fulham last Saturday. That's why I don't go too high or too low.

"It's a world where if we win we are heroes and if we lose we are castigated. I've been in management 17 years and that experience has helped."

Curbishley revealed he'd been sent hate mail, even from a player.

He added: "I got shown a letter from a player that was unsigned, anonymous. I just used to say, if you want a meeting come and see me.

"If a fan sends me criticism that I agree with or feel they have a point, I will reply.

"Receiving nasty letters is just part and parcel of where we are at these days."