Brendan Rodgers admitted he wants Celtic fans talking about football rather than protests after the Parkhead crowd staged another silent demonstration during the 0-0 draw with Hibernian.
The protest formed part of a wider “Sound of Silence” campaign, with fans unhappy at the club’s handling of the summer transfer window and what they see as a lack of ambition from the board. Supporters have grown frustrated by the lack of communication from the hierarchy, and their concerns were on display once again during a match where Celtic dominated but could not find a winning goal.
On the pitch, Rodgers’ side created 26 attempts, struck the bar twice and saw Kelechi Iheanacho have a goal ruled out for offside, but their failure to take chances meant Hearts’ win over Falkirk later in the day moved them two points clear at the top of the Premiership. It was another afternoon of frustration for the players and supporters alike.
Asked about the silent protest after the game, Rodgers chose to focus on his role and on keeping the fans with the team as the season progresses.
He said: (RecordSport), “I can only focus on the football. That’s the challenge for me at the moment, to give the supporters that belief and hope we’ll continue to improve.
“They’d have liked to have won the game and I want people coming away talking about football rather than silence and protests.
“After that 12th minute you felt the support and lift which can make a difference.“
Rodgers knows he has to tread carefully, backing his players while also recognising the unrest in the stands. The change in atmosphere was clear once the chants started, but the silence at the beginning showed just how deep the tension runs at Celtic Park.
The protests aren’t aimed at him, but the anger over transfers and the club’s direction hangs over every game. Rodgers will be well aware that only results can ease the mood, and failing to beat Hibs after so much dominance only adds to the frustration.
With Hearts now leading the way in the Premiership, every slip feels bigger. Rodgers wants the focus to be on football, but until Celtic find their finishing touch, the protests are likely to continue.
He can take some comfort from the team’s control of the game, yet he knows the conversation among fans isn’t just about what happens on the pitch, it’s about what’s happening in the boardroom too.
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