Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker was shocked to be booed by West Ham United fans on Monday.
He was the fans' Hammer of the Year for three consecutive seasons before being sold to Spurs for £5m following relegation in 2011.
Parker admitted: "It was upsetting. In football, one thing I've learned is not much surprises you but I didn't expect West Ham fans to boo me.
"They obviously see it as me going to a local rival. Maybe it was the heat of the moment in a derby but I thought I might get a better reception for the time I spent there.
"I was disappointed but won't dwell on it - maybe people have short memories.
"I had four fantastic years there and West Ham will always have a special place in my heart."