Neil Lennon sends message to his 'amazing' Celtic players

Neil Lennon has told his Celtic players to hold their heads high in the wake of the weekend defeat by Rangers.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has hailed his players despite the Old Firm defeat (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

The Scottish champions are still smarting from their 2-0 loss in Saturday's Old Firm derby at Celtic Park which took the Gers four points clear at the top of the Premiership having played a game more.

Criticism of the team selection and the performance has followed, but the manager has rallied around his under-fire players ahead of the Europa League Group H opener against AC Milan at Parkhead tomorrow night.

Lennon said: "The initial feeling was we were bitterly disappointed. But we have a great game to look forward to."We have tried to be positive with the players and they have responded in the right way"We get our heads down and work hard but they also have to holds their heads high."There is a long way to go. We are not happy with the result but there is plenty of time to improve and bounce back."These players are amazing and they have done amazing things and I am confident that they will continue to do amazing things for the club."

Stefano Pioli’s Rossoneri side will be back in town to kick off the Europa League group stage at 8pm tomorrow night.

Neil Lennon’s side will also face Sparta Prague and French outfit Lille as well as the unbeaten Serie A leaders in Group H of the competition.

Celtic later face Aberdeen, in the SPFL Premiership, on Sunday lunchtime.