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John Hartson defends Neil Lennon

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Following Celtic’s 2-0 defeat at Ibrox last Sunday, former player John Hartson has defended Neil Lennon and has backed him to land the job permanently. 

A permanent manager is yet to be appointed by the club and after losing the final Old Firm clash of the season, the situation hasn’t become any clearer.

Hartson has backed Lennon to be appointed as full-time boss after leading the Hoops to their eighth successive league title. Hartson also insists that the reaction following the Rangers defeat has been over the top and uncalled for.

“Everyone knows where I stand in terms of the Celtic job, and that I support Neil Lennon to get the position. For me, the Rangers defeat doesn’t alter that, but if he doesn’t get the job, that’s entirely Celtic’s decision and that’s fair enough,” Hartson wrote in his column for the Glasgow Evening Times.

“The bottom line though is that he has gone in there at a really difficult time for the club, is doing his utmost, and I just feel that some of the backlash against him in the aftermath of Ibrox was over the top.

“No one would have wanted to win that game more than Neil. We are talking about someone here who is meant to be loved and respected as one of our own,” Hartson added.

“I respect every Celtic supporter’s right to their opinion, but the backlash on social media against him after the defeat just didn’t feel right to me.”

OPINION

Neil Lennon was brought in to secure the title and drag the Bhoys over the line. Lennon achieved all that was asked of him and he deserves credit for that. However, the manner of the defeat to Rangers has to be taken into account and the loss will no doubt have hindered Lennon’s chances of landing the job on a permanent basis. The way in which Celtic lost the game was extremely disappointing and the Hoops were comfortably beaten. Celtic must go away and asses the situation before making this vital decision. Steven Gerrard’s Rangers will have gained great belief following the victory and will come even stronger next season. Celtic should make a change – Lennon came in and did what was asked but we think fresh ideas are needed. A new manager should be brought to the club and have the ability to implement his own style of play whilst bringing in the additions needed. Recruitment will be key for Celtic this summer with Rangers expected to bring in several new additions to help their title charge.

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