‘GREAT PROFESSIONAL’ CAN HELP TEAM-MATES COPE WITH CUP DISAPPOINTMENT, SAYS CALDERWOOD
Published: 16/04/2008
ABERDEEN manager Jimmy Calderwood believes Jackie McNamara has the strength of character to cope with personal criticism and help his team-mates deal with the anger of disillusioned supporters.
Calderwood and his squad have come under fire after last weekend’s Scottish Cup semi-final humiliation by Queen of the South.
Several players have been singled out for criticism, including former Celtic captain McNamara, who was booed when he was substituted on Saturday and further vilified for running straight up the tunnel rather than take his place in the dugout.
Calderwood believes the veteran defender’s vast experience in the game will be vital in helping others recover before Saturday’s SPL trip to Celtic Park.
He said: “I don’t think the mood at the club has lightened yet.
“What happened on Saturday is not something you get over quickly.
“This week we will have to lift the players, but sometimes as a manager you need to be lifted as well, which can be difficult.
“You are always going to get people criticising certain players or managers, but the players are big enough to handle it. They accept the praise when things are going well and, while I have not seen all of the criticism, it is part and parcel of the game and you have to take it when it comes.
“The players have got to help each other. Jackie McNamara has massive experience which helps.
“It is all about character and you learn things the hard way.
“We cannot run away from the fact we deserved stick for the game.