The lifelong Hoops supporter was speaking ahead of Celtic's crucial clash with Celta Vigo amid growing tensions between sections of the support and the club hierarchy

It comes after the Green Brigade announced they would not attend any Europa League or Scottish Cup home fixtures in protest at the club's recruitment strategy and wider direction. Their boycott means one of Parkhead's most vocal sections will be absent for the visit of the Spanish side, with concerns raised about the potential effect on the atmosphere inside the stadium.

Stewart - a long time advocate of the board - revealed he has sympathy with some of the frustrations being voiced by supporters and accepted criticism of Celtic's transfer dealings is not entirely without foundation.

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “I think maybe they’ve got a point, the supporters. Our transfers have been sloppy sometimes. But then, on the other side of it, look how many trophies we’ve won.”

The singer's comments come amid increasing unrest among some supporters. Relations between fans and the board have been strained in recent weeks, with the Celtic Collective organising a tennis ball protest aimed at principal shareholder Dermot Desmond during the Premiership match against St Johnstone.

While Stewart acknowledged the concerns being raised by supporters, he is worried the negativity surrounding the protests could filter through to the players at a key stage of the season.

He said: “It’s so negative, and I hope it doesn’t ring down to the players’ thoughts as they come out the tunnel.”

Despite the absence of the Green Brigade, Stewart believes the rest of the Celtic support must work even harder to create an atmosphere capable of inspiring Brendan Rodgers' side.

“The players have got to step up to get [the fans’] back,” he said. “That part of the ground is empty, the Green Brigade not turning up. So the rest of the supporters have got to make a lot of noise.”

Celtic head into the contest knowing victory would provide a major boost to their hopes of progressing from the Europa League league phase. And Stewart insists there is still everything to play for.

He added: “Like any league, a couple of wins on the trot, if that happens, can shoot you right up to the top. So we do have to win tonight to stand any chance.”