Irish roots swell Neil Lennon's pride in Celtic job

NEIL Lennon says his Irish roots heightened his delight at being appointed Celtic manager.

The Lurgan-born former captain of the SPL runners-up was confirmed in the post last week after a spell as interim manager at the end of last season.

In a series of question and answer roadshows, Lennon will return to Ireland next month to meet Celtic supporters in Dublin and Lurgan and he knows what the club, which has historically-strong Irish links, means in his homeland.

"I'm very proud," he told Celtic's television channel. "Growing up you always want to make your family proud and I know a lot of people back home will be very pleased and proud for me.

"I want to put a team out there that they can all admire and follow. It takes a while and I've got to be patient but I'm determined to do it."

In a statement, the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters' Clubs said: "The association would like to congratulate Neil Lennon on his appointment to the hot seat at Celtic Park.

"Neil was a whole-hearted and passionate player who wore the hoops with pride and captained the club with great distinction.

"We wish Neil and his backroom team every success in leading the club to success."