Brendan Rodgers has revealed his "sadness" at the backlash to his interview with BBC journalist Jane Lewis after Celtic's recent 3-1 win over Motherwell.
The Parkhead boss has sparked outrage across the country after he called the reporter "a good girl" the end of an interview in which the 50-year-old was clearly frustrated at the line of questioning.
Rodgers blasted the narrative he feels has been written about his side so far this season.
When pushed to explain the meaning of his comment by experienced journalist Lewis, Rodgers refused stating: "No, no. You know exactly what I mean. No."
Lewis said: "Can you tell us anymore, you're the one who brought that up so can you not give us some more on it?"
And then Rodgers ended the conversation, saying: "Okay, are we done? Good girl, well done, cheers."
Calls have since come for Rodgers to apologise for the comment with "casual sexism" referenced in response to the manager's remarks.
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Lewis herself has since gone on record to state she was not offended by the Northern Irishman's comments.
And now Rodgers has had his say. "Sadly, for me, in society now we are looking for something to be offended by or to pin onto people," he said.
"I think you guys, since I have been up here, and any other journalist or reporter, know that I have always based my life on relationships.
"I have always offered a warmth, respect, tried to be courteous and offered time to people. That will never change.
"I will address it because I’ve obviously been aware of it [recent backlash].
“Sadly for me in society now, we are looking for something to offend or something offensive to try and pin onto people.
"Obviously when there is that little bit or big bit or whatever it was then I feel I need to address it.
“I deal in people in life, whether it’s players and people in the media.
“I’ve spoken to Jane and she wasn’t offended. We had a laugh about it and she will continue to ask me awkward questions I’m sure.
“We have good relations, like I do with most people in my life."
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