Celtic manager Martin O’Neill did not hold back following a damaging Europa League night at Celtic Park, aiming stinging criticism at supporters whose protests disrupted the contest.
The interim Hoops boss argued the demonstration only made matters easier for the opposition, as they slipped to a 4-1 defeat to Stuttgart in the first leg of the knockout play-off.
What did Martin O'Neill say about Celtic fans' protests against Stuttgart?
Speaking after the drubbing, via Sky Sports, O'Neill took aim at the actions of some supporters after the match was halted just a few minutes in when balls were thrown onto the pitch at Celtic Park.
The protest was aimed at the club's board, but O'Neill felt it badly undermined the team on a huge European night.
“Anybody who thinks that’s a good idea needs their heads examined,” he said, insisting that it sent “totally the wrong message” and stripped away the intimidating atmosphere Celtic Park was once famous for.
FGG says: Unhappy Celtic fans should have their voices heard
While O’Neill’s frustration are understandable, particularly being interviewed straight after such a heavy defeat, the protest reflects wider discontent among Celtic supporters with the board's strategy and ambition in recent times.
Fans pay significant money to watch the Bhoys, and feel their concerns have gone unanswered, with off-pitch tensions arguably at an all-time high amid many years of discontent.
Disruptive protests like this may divide opinion, but they are often used when supporters believe other avenues have failed.
Celtic now need to listen to fans' frustrations because ignoring the paying customer isn't going to stop these things from happening again in the near future.