Neil Lennon reveals managerial future plans following Celtic exit

Neil Lennon (Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group)

Breaking cover for the first time since his departure from Parkhead late last month, Lennon admitted he could see a return to management ‘sooner rather than later’.

He said: “I’ve had a bit of a break, stayed in the house like everybody else is doing at the minute. But I’m sure I’ll get the itch sooner rather than later.”

Lennon has been linked with the now vacant role at Aberdeen following Derek McInnes’ departure earlier this week, and was on pundit duties for BBC Radio 5 Live at Old Trafford for Celtic’s Europa League conquerors AC Milan’s match with Manchester United.

He added: "It just wasn’t our season this season. The players have achieved some incredible things up there in the last sort of five or six years and it was a real privilege.

"I had 20 years sort of player, coach and manager so it’s a huge part of my life."

Lennon has been replaced by assistant John Kennedy while a permanent successor is found. The former Celtic defender is favourite for the job full-time with bookmakers, though Enzo Maresca and Roy Keane are two other candidates with shrinking odds.

Lennon’s second spell as manager at Parkhead ended on February 24, almost two years since he replaced Brendan Rodgers as manager. He led the team to the quadruple treble with the Scottish Cup in December but was knocked out of the Betfred Cup by Ross County. Rangers also won the SPFL Premiership at the weekend.

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