Frustrated Paul Lambert has leaped to the defence of his old Celtic teammate Neil Lennon and claimed some have gone overboard in their criticism of his managerial tenure.
The Ipswich Town boss partnered Lennon in midfield during a glory laden spell at the turn of the century when the Hoops reached the UEFA Cup final.
Lambert learned all about the pressure of Celtic during his eight years in the East End of Glasgow and knows the insatiable demands of the support.
The Hoops have had a stuttering start to the season in terms of performances, were smashed in Europe by an under-strength Sparta Prague and have drifted nine points behind in the race for the title.
And that has prompted some fans to question his future at the club amid the pressure to secure 10 In A Row.
But Lambert points to three remaining games against old foes Rangers as opportunities to put the club back at the top top of the Scottish football tree.
He told the East Anglian Daily Times: “You know what, Celtic Football Club is a worldwide organisation and you’re only as good as your last pass.
“You could have 100 great passes and then if the last one is a nightmare, that’s the one you’re remembered for.
“Lenny has won everything in sight. The league is still well within their grasp and they’re still in a cup final and others as well. They’re well in it.
“People shouldn’t get too carried away because they still have Rangers to play three times.
“Steven (Gerrard) is doing very well with Rangers but Celtic are on their coattails and I don’t think they’d give it up lightly.
“They’re going for 10 In A Row, which would be historic for them, but the criticism is way over the top and it’s not right.
“That’s the demand when you’re at Celtic, though.”
