Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has defended Rangers boss Russell Martin amid recent criticism, urging observers to show greater respect for the challenges faced by managers. Rodgers highlighted the intense scrutiny Martin is under and expressed confidence he will emerge stronger from the experience.
The call for understanding comes after Martin faced questions regarding a team-building exercise involving Loch Lomond’s waters and hills following Rangers’ 2-0 defeat to Hearts at Ibrox last Saturday. Rodgers acknowledged the timing of the activity was unfortunate, stating, “It’s timing. At another time, if russell does that and they won a few games, everyone would be saying ‘what a great idea.'”
Rodgers drew parallels between Martin’s current situation and his own early managerial days, noting he took charge of Liverpool in 2012 at the age of 39 – the same age Martin is now. He emphasized the difficulty of truly understanding a manager’s experience without having been in a similar position. “Unless you’ve been in the shoes of a manager or a coach, do you really, really understand what that person’s gone through? And if you have been in that position, you should respect more,” Rodgers said.
he further praised martin’s character and track record,describing him as “a good man” with a successful playing and managerial career. “He’s done well with the clubs that he’s been at and has now taken on an possibility up here to try and transform Rangers. So, give him time to breathe,” Rodgers concluded. Rodgers also revealed his own team recently completed a positive team-building exercise with players and partners.
