The Leicester City season is a clear example of this for sure.Not just them. Other mid table table team raise their games against us. Is bragging rights to win against us and no shame losing. Best of both worlds. We just like to be the fucking glorified and expensive whore satisfying all other teams in the league.
I sometimes wonder about whether we're perceived to be at a level where teams don't underestimate us but equally don't fear us enough to not have a go. It seems Man City (and maybe Woolwich this season?) have opposition laying down their tools before the match even kicks off.