Gillespie urges fans, Oz critics to 'get behind' Clarke in Ashes

Former Australian great Jason Gillespie has urged Australian fans and critics to get behind captain Michael Clarke during the winter Ashes, which is beginning a week later at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Gillespie believes that everyone, from Test greats to the media and the fans, are slamming Australia, especially Clarke, and looking at the 'glass half empty' in terms of the team's performance.

According to News.com.au, Gillespie urged the critics to stop slamming Clarke's tactics and attitude and the team's performance and instead support them ahead of the next week's Ashes showdown with England, adding that he believes Clarke and his men are doing the best they can to improve their performance from the summer series.

Hoping that there is continued transparency, Gillespie further said that Clarke appears to have had advice from spin legend Shane Warne, adding that it is all the important to support Clarke as it is not easy captaining a side that is being 'potted by blokes' on Ashes eve against a top rival in England.

Gillespie further said that blaming the team's problems on Clarke is too harsh, adding that sometimes it is good to highlight the positives as the players are the key to fostering a positive environment that Darren Lehmann brings as new coach.

Gillespie also said that it would be a hard time for Australia in the upcoming Ashes if they do not get behind Clarke.