We've Travelled To Edinburgh Twice, We've Got The Job Done And The Players Have Come Up Trumps For Me

Exclusive interview Joe Donnelly

IN football, a lot can change in seven days. This is especially true for returning Celtic manager Neil Lennon.

The Irishman began last week preparing for press duties in the Middle East. However, before jetting off, he instead returned as Celtic manager on Tuesday, led his side to victory against Hearts at Tynecastle in dramatic style on Wednesday, and helped the Hoops progress to the semi-final of the Scottish Cup with a 2-0 win against Hibs at Easter Road on Saturday.

Against the unprecedented circumstances of his arrival, Neil Lennon is immensely proud of the resilience, determination and resoluteness his players have shown, both on and off the pitch over the last several days, and is equally appreciative of the demeanour and character of his backroom staff – assistant manager John Kennedy, first-team coach Damien Duff and goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods.

In an exclusive interview with the Celtic View, Neil Lennon reflected on a hectic week, what he described as two magnificent wins in the capital, and the importance of rest before preparing for another difficult encounter with Aberdeen this Saturday at Paradise.

“It’s been non-stop, really,” said the manager. “You’ve obviously got to get your focus on the game immediately, and more importantly, the results. These were two huge games to come into, away from home, and last week was obviously a huge disappointment for everyone at the club, and the players. For me, it’s about managing that as best I can with the support of John, Damien and Stevie.

“The Hibs game on Saturday was a magnificent performance under the circumstances. I thought, in the second half, that was as good as I’ve seen Celtic play in a long time. We controlled the game with the movement, the passing, and two unbelievably good goals, it was great.