Celtic boss Neil Lennon made sure during his press conference to give praise to Rangers legend Fernando Ricksen who passed away on Wednesday from motor neurone disease.
Fernando Ricksen passed away at the age of 43 from motor neurone disease, more commonly known as ALS. The Dutch footballer joined Rangers in 2000 where he played for over six years and won a SPFA player of the year award during the 2004-2005 season. The footballer was always consider a phenomenal talent by Celtic and one to be respected when facing him on the pitch. Ricksen had been bravely battling the degenerative disease for over six years.
Neil Lennon and Fernando Ricksen were not strangers to each other as Neil Lennon played for Celtic from 2000-2007, a similar timeframe to Ricksen during his stint with Rangers. While both were competitors on the field, a level of respect for the human being was always present between the two.
During Neil Lennon’s press conference prior to the Rennes match in France the Celtic skipper had some very nice things to say about his former rival according to the Express:
"“I am very, very upset for his family obviously, for someone who I played against in many battles…“And for the Glasgow public to lose him at such a young age is devastating. He put up an unbelievable fight.“As a player he got better and better in his time at Rangers, to the point he became player of the year.“Our condolences go to his family and Glasgow Rangers as well. It’s a huge loss and I have felt it myself, for someone who I played against for a long, long time.”"
Clearly Neil Lennon has set aside any differences that may have arisen while playing the game of football when considering the legacy and life of great man, and good footballer.
Extra Time:
- Celtic are currently in France to face off against Rennes in their first Europa League Group Stage match. Leigh Griffiths is reportedly injured, and did not travel with the club.
- Rennes will prove to be a tough match for Celtic, especially when playing in France. However, Rennes’ manager is not about to underestimate some of Celtic’s talent.
- Finally, do not miss the game as we tell you how to watch the game. The Celtic Bhoys have also taken a crack at predicting Thursday’s starting XI. And remember, if you cannot find a way to watch the game, keep up on our live blog!