Celtic boss Neil Lennon has told fans their protests don't help as his side try to get out of their rut.
The Hoops have won just two out of 10 games in all competitions and Lennon admits he does understand the fans' frustration.
But he insists they don't help the players and revealed he was 'hurt' when he seen the crowds gathered outside Celtic Park on Sunday night.
The Betfred Cup defeat to Ross County came just days after collapsing in the Czech Republic with the Europa League loss to Sparta Prague and hundreds of supporters gathered to vent their feelings.
Lennon said: "We are disappointed, we are hurt.
"I understand the frustrations of the supporters because ultimately we are not in a great run at the minute.
"But it serves no purpose, particularly for the players.''
The Celtic gaffer also expressed his gratitude to the club's board and insisted they wouldn't sack him 'for the sake of it', as he revealed messages of support from other fans.
He added: "Not in my heart of hearts but I could understand if that would have been the case, yes.
"I am very grateful (for the backing). They are not a board that sack managers for the sake of it.
"We have had great success, we are going through a tough time but they don't leave you out in the lurch.
"There is great support here. Great support from supporters, letters, emails... there has been great support from other managers in the game, and the LMA (League Managers Association) who have seen it all before and who probably deal with it on a daily basis.
"It is really encouraging and comforting and I have had great support from the players as well."
