Neil Lennon has yet another supporter in Celtic winger Jonny Hayes

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Neil Lennon is starting to build up quite the army of support, with Jonny Hayes the latest to send praise his way.

Hayes has been entrusted by Lennon in recent matches. It may be a stretch to say he’s the first-choice left-winger, but he has started in three of our last four games.

And the Irishman has impressed too. He’s growing into the Hoops jersey, and is showing that blistering directness he was known for during his time in Aberdeen.

In saying that, it’s only today he’s come out and really backed Lennon vocally. Speaking about the interim manager to Celtic’s official media channels, Hayes said the following:

“The manager has been superb since he’s come in. He’s really came in and looked to improve the players as much as he can.

“I’m sure whoever is in charge next will know that they’ve got a great dressing room full of big characters.

“When you see the passion from the manager, you can’t help but feel it rubbing off on the players. You can see how much he loves the club and how much he wants to win every game. The boys are enjoying themselves. Winning games is the perfect preparation for our upcoming matches.”

Another to add to the collection for Lennon

Granted, Hayes hasn’t actually confirmed he wants Lennon to stay on permanently. But with words like these, he doesn’t have to. The renaissance he’s gone under, combined with his praise of Lennon, you don’t get the feeling the Irishman would be too displeased if he got it permanently.

And Lennon’s group of supporters amongst the players are growing. Scott Brown, Callum McGregor, and Jozo Simunovic have all came out and expressed their desire to see Lennon get the job.

It’s a vital step for the Northern Irishman that so many of his current playing staff would be willing to see him get the role. Expect to see more come out and say similar words if the Hoops keep winning games during the run-in. Winning breeds that kind of confidence and happiness amongst a camp.

What will be interesting is whether this helps Lennon’s case. How much influence will the players’ happiness be in Lennon’s report card come the end of the season?

Senior BBC journalist Tom English claimed that Celtic want to give Lennon the job. If that’s true, then Lennon’s support at Parkhead is continuing to grow. But only continued success between now and the end of the season will keep it that way.