THIS BEATS LIV-ING ON BREADLINE

JOHN ROBERTSON says the pressure to save Livingston from the drop is NOTHING compared to his time out of football when he struggled to pay his mortgage.

Life was put in perspective for Robbo (right) during a four month exile after leaving Ross County when he was forced to look for work outside the game for the first time.

The Livi manager isn't keen to reveal the alternative options he pursued - but admits the stress of that time far outweighs the strain of preserving his side's SPL status.

He said: "I'm not under any pressure. You have people on the dole, that's pressure.

"I was under more stress in the four months when I couldn't make my mortgage repayments. Now THAT'S pressure. This is a game and it's to be enjoyed. Someone has to be bottom of the league and unfortunately it's Livingston.

"Those four months have given me a perspective. The first couple were refreshing as I took a step back and watched games as a neutral - but it's in my blood and I wanted to work again as soon as possible.

"I was doing stuff for the media but there are only so many people who can get regular work. I made inquiries about one or two bits and bobs outside football.

"Luckily this chance has come up and I'll give it 100 per cent."

Robbo will relish taking on his former club Hearts today and admires the way Graham Rix has handled working for Vladimir Romanov.

He said: "I know first hand how difficult that is and Hearts fans would admit I was harshly treated. It was always going to be difficult for Graham but he stuck at it, told people what's been going on and has handled it with dignity.

"Vladimir never tried to interfere with my team selection although it was made clear they were going to bring in players I perhaps hadn't picked.

"I've spoken to Vladimir since and never had any problems ."

Taken from the Sunday Mail