Neil Lennon confirms touchline ban appeal

NEIL Lennon has confirmed he will launch an appeal against his automatic two-match dug-out ban for being sent to the stand by referee Craig Thomson during Celtic's defeat by Hearts at Tynecastle over a week ago.

• Lennon will launch his appeal today after being banished from the touchline at Tynecastle Picture: PA

The Hoops' boss will also appeal the separate excessive misconduct conduct charge brought by the SFA following his touchline rant with the fourth official when a penalty claim for handball against Gorgie player Ryan Stevenson was turned down.

The deadline for appealing the automatic ban is today and speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Dundee United at Parkhead tomorrow, Lennon said: "I will be appealing today."

Meanwhile, Anthony Stokes will miss Celtic's with Dundee United at Parkhead tomorrow after picking up a virus.