David Duncan, head coach of Accra Hearts of Oak has hinted he was compelled to substitute goalkeeper Tetteh Luggard in the fourth week league game against Sekondi Hasaacas because he lacked the backing of the fans.

Luggard has been in the bad books of the fans for some howlers since the commencement of the league and was booed by the fans for the equalizer by Hasaacas in the 36th after an 18th minute lead by Hearts.

He was substituted by Philemon McCarthy at the beginning of the second half.

Luggard, was nearly attacked by fans after the third week game against Inter Allies at the Tema Stadium last Sunday, when he allowed in two goals by the Tema based side.

Speaking at a post-match conference on Wednesday, the coach explained that, he had to substitute the goalkeeper to save his career.

'We are playing for the fans and if a player is not enjoying the backing of the fans then he must be substituted to save him from further attack.

“Keeping him in the post was like sacrificing him. He was already down and the only way to save him was to compel him to take an early shower.”

He, however, noted that, his players are professionals and understand such situations.

“These are professionals who are not bothered by who is starting or who is staying on the bench. They understand the game and approach everything in a professional way.”

Coach Duncan said he is taking a match at a time and will now shift his focus on the next game.