Scott Brown backs Lennon as 'great choice' for Celtic

Lennon enjoyed a winning start in his interim role when Celtic beat Kilmarnock 3-1 on Saturday in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League, and the former Parkhead skipper stated his desire to retain the post on a permanent basis immediately after replacing the ousted Tony Mowbray last week.

Brown is sure his experience of playing for a successful Celtic team and his respect among the players will give him a chance.

"If you ask all the lads, he's a leader," the Scotland midfielder said. "He has been there and done it all, and the players all respect him as well, so he would be a great choice.

"There was a lot of pressure on him in the first game but it was a good start. We played good football and looked an attacking team that was going to score goals.

"There are seven games left in the league and we've got to win all seven of them. There is a trophy as well and that's our main aim."

Winning the Scottish Cup and cutting Rangers' lead in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League could see Lennon emerge as a serious contender for the role.

But more experienced managers such as former Blackburn and Manchester City boss Mark Hughes have also been linked with the position. "It shows you how big a pull Celtic is," Brown said. "It's a great club with a lot of fans as well. A lot of managers will want the job but at the minute Neil is doing well and at the end of the season we'll see what happens."

Brown retained the captain's armband for Saturday's game and he is determined to vindicate Lennon's trust. "It means a lot," the 24-year-old said. "I'm glad he has stuck by me, now I need to repay him. I enjoy it. I go out on the park and give 110 per cent and cheer the lads on anyway no matter if I'm captain or not."