On Sky Sports last weekend for Celtic’s trip to Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, Sutton described St Mirren’s 2-1 win at Falkirk as dull, criticising the Buddies for frequently ‘lumping’ the ball rather than playing more attractive football.
Robinson acknowledges that people are entitled to their views on his team’s playing style, but he couldn’t resist taking a subtle jab at Sutton in response.
When speaking to the media yesterday afternoon ahead of St Mirren’s Premier Sports League Cup quarter-final tie with Kilmarnock tonight, Robinson said via St Mirren’s YouTube channel: “[People] are paid to try and stay relevant.”
“I didn’t see them [Sutton’s comments]. People always like to tell you good news so I got told some of it. Everyone’s got an opinion and everyone’s entitled to one.”
Robinson added: “I don’t actually care to be honest. I’m very comfortable in what I do. You don’t get to 400 league games if you don’t know what you’re doing.”
“Everyone’s entitled to their opinion,” he added. “That’s it. Everyone’s entitled to their opinion, that’s what people are paid for to try and stay relevant. It doesn’t bother too much to be honest.”
Sutton’s comments on reflection were a tad harsh. St Mirren have been excellent at what they do for a few years now under Robinson and are a constant nuisance when they face Celtic or any other club for that matter.
Also, as Sutton knows, Martin O’Neill’s Celtic side were Land of the Giants and played direct football often so to criticise St Mirren’s approach – when they have been successful at it for many years – is harsh.
The Buddies will be hoping to reach Hampden this evening when they face Killie at Rugby Park. If they do, Celtic will be hoping to join them on Sunday when Brendan Rodgers’ side go up against Partick Thistle at Firhill.
The St Mirren boss also gave his views on the penalty controversy at Rugby Park on Sunday.
Conor Spence
CELTIC IN THE EIGHTIES by DAVID POTTER – OUT NOW!