Sir Rod Stewart has refused to criticise the Green Brigade over their Celtic boycott, admitting on talkSPORT: "Maybe they've got a point." The Hoops-daft rocker, who has previously clashed with the Parkhead ultras, showed solidarity with the fan group as they stay away from all Europa League and Scottish Cup home games, including tonight's clash with Celta Vigo.
However, the 81-year-old singer fears the absence of the influential supporters could hamper Celtic's chances of securing a much-needed win against the Spaniards.
Stewart's fears over empty stands
Speaking on talkSPORT, Stewart said: "It's so negative, and I hope it doesn't ring down to the players' thoughts as they come out the tunnel." He added: "I think maybe they've got a point, the supporters. Our transfers have been sloppy sometimes. But then, on the other side of it, look how many trophies we've won."
Stewart urged the remaining fans to compensate for the Green Brigade's absence, saying: "The players have got to step up to get [the fans'] back. That part of the ground is empty, the Green Brigade not turning up. So the rest of the supporters have got to make a lot of noise."
Letter to Martin O'Neill
Meanwhile, Stewart believes he deserves credit for Celtic's upturn in fortunes after sending manager Martin O'Neill team selection advice. The rock star penned a letter urging O'Neill to start Callum Osmand, Camilo Duran and Haissem Hassan together in attack, a wish granted as the trio shone in Sunday's 7-1 demolition of Hearts.
Speaking to Alan Brazil, Stewart revealed: "I said, 'Dear Martin… my starting front three [against Hearts] would be Osmand, Duran and Hassan, and Chamberlain in the midfield, because we lack a bit of muscle'." He added: "So three of those four I got right! I don't know if I convinced him or not, but I was over the moon. I'll be in the dugout next week!"
