Brendan: talk is cheap

RODGERS ROUNDS ON MARTIN CRITICS FOR EASY POT-SHOTS

- BY RYAN MCDONALD

BRENDAN RODGERS has lashed out at the furious flak coming Russell Martin's way and took a swipe at the sideline snipers.

Last season's interim boss Barry Ferguson plus coaches Neil McCann and Billy Dodds have all had their say on Martin's awful start to the season.

And the Celtic boss came out swinging in defence of his under-fire Rangers rival amid a wave of criticism from fans and pundits.

Martin has been ridiculed for sending his struggling players on a team bonding trip to Loch Lomond and Conic Hill.

But Rodgers revealed his Hoops stars also enjoyed a day out - without the eyes of the world watching.

And with outspoken critics - including some of last year's Gers coaching staff who have all returned to media work - taking aim at Martin, Rodgers has demanded they show some respect.

He said: "Being a manager in this modern game and especially at the high end clubs and the big pressure clubs, it's a big challenge. Because all the eyes are on you.

"It can be a lonely place. There's hardly any time to breathe. But you have to find a way.