Celtic star backs Neil Lennon to remain at Parkhead

With fans waiting to hear more news from Celtic about changes to key roles, including Neil Lennon’s position as manager, there will be mixed views about his public backing from within the club.

Many fans and pundits believe Lennon’s time as Celtic manager is up and needs to be brought to an end. But he remains in charge and the signs of his imminent departure and replacement are diminishing rapidly. In news earlier this week related to the financial results chairman Ian Bankier revealed that the long awaited review by the club was still taking place.

The latest sign of no change comes from the interviews by Celtic representatives at the regular media conference. Lennon was given the full and very public support of the squad by Callum McGregor.

McGregor was asked if he thought Lennon would be in charge next season, but he made it clear that wasn’t a decision for the players to take. He also made it clear that all the players were behind the Northern Irish manager.

Despite the terrible performances, Celtic continue to back Neil Lennon

That’s quite some statement given the criticism levelled at the manager about performances on the pitch and squandering the 10IAR opportunity. As reported by Sky Sports, McGregor said:

"“He has a great record at this club, he has had so much success, firstly as a player and then obviously as a manager.“His credentials speak for themselves and we have had very successful times. We have managed to do two trebles under his wing as well which everybody remembers.“He has had a great time at the club and people above us will make that decision but from my side and the players’ side, we are all behind him.”"

Strong backing indeed for the current manager. With the lack of any update from the club executives on the managerial situation, many fans will feel unnerved by any suggestions that Lennon may be in place for a while yet.

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The enormously disappointing season has left fans hungry for change. From the players perspective, it has not been a positive experience either. McGregor went on to reflect on that point too:

"“It has been disappointing, obviously we hoped for more. It’s just not been the case.“Us as players, staff, we have to refocus and get to a better place again.“That’s our job in the football department, to get better and finish the season on a positive and we attack next season in the same vein that we want to do well.”"

It has been more than disappointing. That also looks like a statement that indicates we need to look ahead, plan and prepare for next season. A good end to this season will help, but many will still believe that a change of manager soon will be fundamental to good preparation for the upcoming campaign.