Neil Lennon says Georgios Samaras happy at Celtic after reports of Liverpool interest

“It’s just speculation, someone taking a flyer,” said Lennon in the wake of a comprehensive 3-1 victory over Kilmarnock. “I’m not sure if anyone will want to leave just now, the way things are going. Samaras has been a huge player for the club. He’s been through a lot and has come out the other side and you can see what the fans think of him. I don’t think he’d be wanting to leave in too much of a hurry.”

The Greek international got Celtic’s third goal but it was Scott Brown who dominated the day, scoring one and helping to create two more, winning £20 from his manager into the bargain for his goal – as did Joe Ledley. “I’m 40 quid out of pocket,” said Lennon, who had struck a bet with his midfielders before kick-off. Brown joked: “It’s a lot of money. I’ll put a deposit down on a house I think.”

Lennon said that Celtic were more like their old selves yesterday, compared to the distracted and vulnerable team that has dropped so many points in the league this season.

“The fact we’re through [to the Champions League last 16] is the difference,” he said.

“The players aren’t looking a week or two down the line for the next Champions League game and maybe saving a bit for it. They know what’s at stake, they know our consistency hasn’t been all there.”

The win extends Celtic’s lead at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League to three points, with a game in hand. Their nearest rivals before yesterday, Hibernian, lost 3-0 away at Inverness Caldedonian Thistle, allowing the Highland club to move into second place. Hibs drop to fourth, with Motherwell rising to third after their 3-2 home win over Ross County.

Hearts bounced back from their Scottish Cup defeat at Easter Road last week with a 2-0 win over Aberdeen at Tynecastle, and nine-man St Johnstone held on for a 1-1 draw with St Mirren in Paisley.