It is a defence mechanism in some cases.

In relation to international fans, there is is in many instances less of a perceived rivalry with the Spuds. While in Canada and Ireland,I hated Liverpool and Man Utd more because it was fans of those Clubs I gave/received grief from. Spurs hardly mattered at all. That has since changed for obvious reasons.

While we're talking about what we can't begin to think, I can't begin to think why any Arsenal fan that has been paying attention would think we'll win the next four.