Neil Lennon plotting management return after Celtic exit

Originally posted on The Celtic Star | Last updated 12/7/21

Neil Lennon has spoken about his plans for returning to football after a spell in punditry. The Irishman has been out of management since February when he agreed to leave Celtic. Now, he has stated that he intends on pursuing a return to management.

The 50-year-old has been on the gantry and in the studio doing games for various media companies but he has told the Leicester Mercury that he is itching to get back into the dugout and taking a team.

“I’m enjoying the punditry and I’ve had a good break. I’ve been hard at it – the management – for almost 10 years non-stop so it was nice to have a break.

“I’m starting to get the feeling, the itch, to get back in. It’s just a question of waiting to see what opportunities may arise. I’m excited about the future.

“We won five trophies in my second spell at Celtic. I’ve got 10 trophies under my belt with European experience and promotion with Hibernian.

“I’ve still got plenty to offer off the back of what I’ve achieved already.”

Photo: Andrew Milligan

Lennon has had spells with Bolton Wanderers and Hibs between his two stints as Celtic manager. It is likely that he would be open to any opportunity that might arise, including Israel. However, if he were to look closer to home, in the English Championship, Preston North End are looking for a new manager – something that Lennon might fancy. There might be an opening in Scotland again if either St Johnstone’s Callum Davidson or Motherwell’s Graeme Alexander can be tempted to Preston.

Lennon was fortune to be reappointed a second time but managed to seal some impressive results during his second tenure as Celtic matched their own record of 9IAR. His attempts to win 10IAR ended in disaster as he vacated the role in February, with the League all but mathematically lost.

Supporters rightly felt aggrieved with the way things transpired last year, especially with Lennon’s seeming reluctance to step aside even though the season was destined for failure. With that said, Lennon won ten titles with Celtic, eight Scottish Cups and three league cups in two spells as manager and as a player. He will always be a Celtic legend but it was clear that his time as manager was up. Lennon will be recognised for all that he has done for the club but it may take some time as this season has been incredibly tough for everyone involved.

This article first appeared on The Celtic Star and was syndicated with permission.

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