Lennon: Players must cope with Old Firm pressure

The Parkhead side fell three points behind leaders Rangers after a Sean Dillon injury-time header at Celtic Park gave Dundee United a share of the spoils.

Gary Hooper's 11th goal of the season after 23 minutes put the home side ahead and had Tannadice keeper Dusan Pernis not made a great save from the former Scunthorpe striker minutes later then the points could have been safe.

However, as the second goal refused to come the anxiousness of the home support appeared to spread from the stands on to the pitch and United eventually got the equaliser they deserved with just seconds remaining of three added minutes.

Former Celtic skipper Lennon believes his players have to cope with the pressure which is sure to increase as the season continues.

"That's the expectation level that comes with being at a big club and the players have to live with that and have to get past that," the Irishman said.

"It's been like that since I've been here and I'm sure it was like it before that.

"It's something we have to deal with when playing for Celtic.

"I don't think it helps at times but I can understand why the fans get a bit anxious as we all do when you are 1-0 up with minutes to go.

"I didn't think we were in massive danger and were hanging on.

"Dundee United forced a few set-pieces but I always thought we were capable of scoring.

"I don't know how many good chances we had but it was enough to win the game."

United boss Peter Houston hopes his players can retain the belief they showed for future visits to both Old Firm clubs.

"I felt that the longer the game went on, the more confident we grew," he said.

"Going away to play the Old Firm is very difficult and every time you tell your players to be brave and pass the ball."