'We need strength in adversity' - Celtic chief calls for unity as he throws support behind Neil Lennon

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has all but given his backing to under-fire manager Neil Lennon as he called for unity in the wake of a run of two wins in nine matches.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has issued a statement following the club's exit from the Betfred Cup competition and subsequent ugly scenes outside Parkhead

Speaking for the first time following the club’s exit from the Betfred Cup competition and subsequent ugly scenes involving supporters outside Parkhead, the Hoops chief insisted that fans’ concerns were being taken on board as he admitted there was room for improvement.

Lawwell said: “Like all those with Celtic’s best interests at heart, everyone at the Club is feeling the same hurt, disappointment and frustration following the team’s recent results. We are accustomed to winning and, of course, our objective will always be for that to continue. There is no complacency whatsoever.

"Neil, the players and backroom staff, who have already done so much for the Club, share in all of that. They have never been more determined to succeed. Having enjoyed such sustained, unprecedented success, we now need strength in adversity."

The statement suggests that Lennon will remain in post for Celtic’s upcoming dead rubber Europa League match against AC Milan in Italy this week and potentially beyond that.

Supporters have been voicing their displeasure on social media with recent results and performances, while there were scuffles outside the club’s stadium as a number of fans gathered to protest following Sunday’s defeat by Ross County.

Lawwell continued: “We know that many Celtic supporters share very honest and real concerns and they are being heard by the club. Every decision taken, both on and off the park, is with the club’s best interests at heart. This is not about any individual, but about Celtic Football Club as a collective.

"Together we have faced unique difficulties in the early part of the season. While some of these were beyond our control, of course we recognise we must improve. There is a long way to go and everyone at the club is ready for the challenge.

"Later this month, Celtic will attempt what no other club in the world has achieved – a quadruple treble in domestic competitions.

"We can best prepare for that and for our other remaining competitions this season by moving forward together, with the sole aim of achieving continued success for the club."

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