Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been talking to the media before his side's Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Partick Thistle on Sunday.

Rodgers and Celtic "respect" Partick Thistle and know they have to play well in order to reach the semi-final.

Rodgers' focus is on the pitch and believes his team are starting to find "rhythm". He says focus from the media on the rift between Celtic's supporters and board is a "sideshow".

He insists Celtic aren't in "crisis" and highlights the togetherness among his playing squad. Admits you would want that togetherness "in every sector of the club".

Suggests there could be changes to his team for the Thistle game, but wants to keep the rhythm he feels is building.

On Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, who is yet to play since joining on loan from Manchester City, Rodgers says Celtic see him as a "talent" but that he will have to earn his place in the team.

Rodgers believes 19-year-old right-back Colby Donovan, who made his first start last weekend, has the "personality" to play for Celtic, but still has a "long way" to go before he is a regular.

Rodgers wanted to see Michel-Ange Balikwisha on the right wing against Kilmarnock, but says his best position is off the left.

Rodgers was asked about the pressure Rangers head coach Russell Martin is under and says it can be "a lonely place" managing a big team. He adds every team goes on team-bonding exercises but how it's judged depends on how the team are performing.

Rodgers doesn't like managers being "pulled up on tactics" by ex-bosses who "couldn't work that out either". He believes Martin will "be stronger" for the experience and referenced how he managed Liverpool at the same age.

He calls Martin "a good man" and thinks he should be "given room to breathe".

Rodgers was asked about his own comments regarding a Celtic insider briefing against him in the Scottish Sun. He replied: "It's done."

Team news: Auston Trusty and Anthony Ralston should be back in team training next week. There are no new injury concerns.

Rodgers on Balikwisha's best position, Martin pressure & Partick Thistle