Lawwell backs Lennon to stay with Celtic
The Hoops chief executive believes his manager has the resolve to come through a turbulent period of non-football matters.
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has backed Neil Lennon to remain in charge of the club beyond the end of the season.
Lennon has been subject to a number of threats to his safety in recent months and was assaulted on the touchline by a supporter during his team’s 3-0 win at Hearts in midweek.
On Thursday, the Hoops boss was sent a package believed to contain a bullet to Celtic Park, following on from the delivery of other bullets and the interception of two parcel bombs, which were described by police as “viable” devices.
The most recent incidents have led to rumours Lennon could walk away from the club after their final day fixture against Motherwell, which will decide whether the SPL title will be won by either Celtic or Rangers.
But Lawwell, who appointed the former club captain as boss after a successful spell as caretaker following Tony Mowbray’s departure last March, doesn’t want his man to quit and says he is hopeful his personality and desire to succeed will convince him to remain in charge.
“He’s a remarkable man, his strength of character is incredible,” said Lawwell.
“He is proud to be the Celtic manager. I think he gets his energy and his strength through his job and through being part of this club and through the energy of the supporters.
“He knows he’s not alone, he knows he’s got the backing and that gives him the strength to go forward.
“I very much hope events don’t lead him to thinking otherwise but, where I’m sitting, I feel he has the strength of character to take him forward.”
Celtic go into their final fixture knowing a win against Motherwell may not be enough to win their first title since 2008, with Rangers needing to drop points at Kilmarnock to send the SPL trophy back across the city.
The initiative had been with Lennon’s team before a surprise defeat at Inverness Caledonian Thistle but, given recent events, Lawwell says everyone at the club is determined to give their all and keep their end of the bargain on the last day.
“I don’t think the club has ever been more united behind Neil Lennon and I think the unity and energy that gives us should spur us on,” Lawwell said.
“The title’s not over yet, hopefully we can get a bit of luck on Sunday. But certainly we’ll be prepared through that unity next year and in subsequent years.”
(stv sport)
