Russell Martin deserves more respect, says Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers

Martin was criticised for taking his players wild swimming and hill walking at Loch Lomond after their latest loss, a 2-0 defeat by Hearts at Ibrox last Saturday .

But Rodgers countered: “It’s timing. At another time, if Russell does that and they won a few games, everyone would be saying ‘what a great idea’.

“We had a team-building exercise during the week with the players and the partners and it was really nice.

“I see the scrutiny that’s on Russell and whatever happens for him, he will be better for it. He will be stronger for it.”

Rodgers sees similarities between Martin’s situation and his own younger days.

The Northern Irishman took charge of Liverpool in 2012 at 39 – the same age Martin is now – and can identify with the position he finds himself in.

“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.

“He’s a good man. When he played, he had a fantastic career built around will and desire and had a really good career when he stepped into management.

“He’s done well with the clubs that he’s been at and has now taken on an opportunity up here to try and transform Rangers. So, give him time to breathe.”