Former Celtic manager Gordon Strachan believes that Neil Lennon still has plenty to offer.
The Northern Irishman is in charge of Celtic until the end of the season. So far, he’s led the club to three wins from four games, and increased our lead at the top of the Premiership by two points. The Hoops are now 10 clear of nearest rivals Rangers.
There have been no comments from Lennon about what’s happening beyond the summer. It seems as though both he and the club are waiting to see how his full interim period goes first and foremost.
But Strachan told the Scottish Sun that he believes there’s still drive in the Celtic interim manager. He doesn’t believes Lennon has fulfilled himself in terms of his managerial career, and also stated that he would love it if he was given the role.
“When he went away (from Celtic) I kept in touch and I still think there’s more in him — he hasn’t fulfilled himself. I think he’s finding that out.
“There’s not a nicer person in company than Neil. He’s a jovial, polite man. But when he becomes a football manager, he changes into something different, as I’m afraid we all do. I’m sure he’d like to be more Arsene Wenger, but that’s the way he is and it’s very hard to change.
“I think when he calms down Lenny knows when he’s been wrong and when he’s been right. Somebody has to tell him now and then that things don’t look right.”
Lennon remains as passionate as ever
You can see just by watching Lennon that there’s sheer drive and determination still instilled in him.
His celebrations against the likes of Hearts and Dundee showed one of a passionate man. He’s like most Celtic supporters when Celtic score, and that’s not something you could’ve really said about the more relaxed Brendan Rodgers.
Some journalists may think Lennon is over the top, and he might be on certain occasions. But you won’t ever take the passion or love for Celtic he has out of him. When Celtic score goals or win games, you know it means just as much to Lennon as it does to you. That’s a positive connection to have with the manager.
But it won’t bag him the job either. Recommendations and praise are always positives, but it’s points that will determine Lennon’s fate.
Strachan, however, is spot on when stating that Lennon hasn’t fulfilled himself. He looks as up for the job ahead of him than ever.
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