 Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Neil Lennon, the most exceptional person in Scotland
Neil Lennon will bring to an end a unique Celtic career when he retires after the Scottish Cup Final on 26 May. Five Scottish Premier League winners medals is more than any Celtic player has earned since Danny McGrain collected his last in 1986.
Lennon seems to have achieved everything the hard way. He worked his way through a football apprenticeship via Crewe Alexandria and Leicester City, having been released as a young player by Manchester City.
Gordon Strachan’s first act as Celtic manager was to sign Lennon on a new contract and make the midfield player captain, a position he revelled in; twice leading the club to the championship, as well as the knock out stage of the Champions League for the first time.
His time as a Celtic player has been marked by several distressing incidents. Death threats and intimidation made his position in the Northern Ireland squad untenable. He is Scotland's most frequent victim of sectarian assault and was the target of the first football fan in Scotland prosecuted for sectarian behaviour at a football ground.
His recent autobiography avoided normal banalities and revealed his battle against depression; a subject he spoke of with disarming openness.
Despite his considerable achievements at the club, he was singled out by an abusive Celtic ‘supporter’ after a recent defeat against Rangers. The incident clearly affected Neil, however, I am sure it said more about his abuser than the high regard the club captain is held in by genuine supporters.
He is a modern player, mature in his approach to risk, seldom losing possession. Forays into the opposition penalty area were few; he has averaged just under one goal every two seasons at Celtic.
Approaching 36 years old, his presence in the dressing room is likely to be missed more than on the field. When Thomas Gravesen arrived at the club in 2006, Lennon received the assurance from his manager that Gravesen was not seen as his replacement, however, it is likely that Gordon Strachan has been planning for life, post-Lennon in recent months.
Good luck Neil, I hope you sign out with a Scottish Cup winners medal, though I would trade that to see you score the winning goal at Ibrox.
258 Comments:
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Hail hail Neil Lennon.
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Paul - as I said to kano on the last thread BEFORE you posted new article - that is a fine and fitting tribute to a great Celt.
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Hail! Hail! Neil Lennon. A true Celt, up there with Henke.
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I'm not sure I agree with your last sentence though!! Can't we be greedy and hope for both?
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kano - repost from last thread please - it needs to be on this one too.
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On Neil Lennon.
I would just like to add my two bob's worth on his time at Celtic.
Firstly,I think he has made the right decision,and I hope he only goes somewhere else as a player if it is connected with a coaching job,otherwise I think he should retire.
I would not like this man to spend a couple of years being kicked about in the lower divisions by lesser human beings.
When we look at the history of Celtic greats,in the very near future Neil Lennon will rise to near the top of that list.
I believe this to be so for a number of reasons.
I will attempt to list some of them.
First and foremost,on a personal level for the player himself.
He left the "greatest league in the world"(copyright,any English publication or broadcaster)at the pinnacle of his career,not when he was having troubles,not when his ex manager new of a buy out clause to get him cheap,or when no one else was interested,but because he wanted to play for Celtic.
He knew fine well what that decision could possibly mean for himself and his family.
Let us not forget(how could we)that he made this decision in the full knowledge that it may incur the wrath of murderous bampots without an ounce of reason in their thick skulls.
Yet he made it(and we all know the consequences).
He quickly became a regular,and when I mean regular,I cannot honestly remember the man being injured for any more than two weeks.
He was a player who,because of the way he played the game,was hard to take to for a lot of Celtic supporters,and it took a long time for his abilities to be recognised.
But it was my Da,who has been watching Celtic since the early forties,who convinced me,when he said"I know most people don't like him,but Celtic are not the same team when he is not there,they very seldom lose a game when he does not play,regardless of the opposition"
Now I am sure there is other factors involved in this,but I tended to believe this was the case.
I think even when we had what a lot of people consider what we are missing today,Neil Lennon was the main part of the ingredients.
What happened to the man in his international career would have killed most other footballers spirit and love of the game.
But not Neil,it spurred him on to prove the bampots were,well,bampots.
And I actually think he had an effect,which may well be his greatest achievment.
As he got older and moved towards the end of his career,he was offered(according to some reports)half of what he had earned in his previous lucrative contract.
He could quite easily have left for some middle ranking "best league in the world" team and maintained his personal earnings.
But he did not.
He chose to stay with Celtic.
And his energy and effort only seemed to increase,if that was possible.
He has put up with what can only be described as bile and sectarion bigotry of the highest order from "football fans" of nearly every club he has played against in Scotland(I would exempt both Hibernian and Aberdeen from the above,who for two clubs who really don't like us,deserve the utmost credit for rising above the shite that has rained down upon the man(Paul PLEASE!! Please don't I cannot describe it any better)I will stand corrected on that if anybody has seen or heard different),with the same treatment from the Scottish"sports media"who somehow managed to portray him as some sort of thug with no self control,which despite the extreme provocation he suffered,had one of the best disciplinary records of any combative midfielder in Scotland.
On a non personal level,I think Neil Lennon payed us one of the biggest compliments that has come in our direction when he came to Celtic from England,because he knew he would have a better career and would actually be playing at a higher level than all but the top four of the top four leagues in Europe.
And i actually think that he had a large part to play in making this a reality.
He is not he most skillful Celtic player I have ever seen,by a long way.
He is not the fastest or fittest Celtic player I have seen,by a long way.
He is not the most popular Celtic player I have seen,by a long way.
But I think he desrves the biggest thanks for playing for Celtic of any player that I have ever known or heard of.
Not that long ago we gave a testimonial to someone,who whilst being a superb player and goalscorer and Celtic hero,took none of the risks,abuse or strain(nor did his family)that could somehow be associated with playing for Celtic.
If there is one other man we can break the ten year rule to have a testimonial for.
Then step forward one Neil Lennon.
You are a Celtic "hero" of a magnitude that very few people could even begin to understand.
If we are too short in time to arrange a testimonial,then maybe we could arrange for the proceeds from our last home game to go to him.
After all,there would be few people there otherwise.
If there is enough time to organise one,I,personally would like to see us play Northern Ireland.
The risks involved in such a fixture,are far less than the risks that Neil Lennon took to play for our club,it is the least we could do.
Step forward Mr Lennon
One true Celtic legend and hero.
Hail Hail and thank you.
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Goodbye Neil and Good Luck.
You will always be fondly remembered in the vclxi household. I once had the good fortune of meeting a few of the Celtic players at the start of the Seville season. Neil Lennon was by far the most approachable and friendly of all of the players who I encountered. A true ambassador for the club.
You have from now until May 5th to practice those penalties and free kicks.
Scottish league Champion - 2001, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2007
Scottish Cup Winner - 2001, 2004, 2005
Scottish league Cup Winner - 2001, 2006
UEFA Cup finalist - 2003
CL last sixteen - 2007
100% record of SPL wins as Captain of Celtic.
Thanks for the memories
A winner and a True Celt
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Neil Lennon is without doubt in my mind THE Modern Celtic Legend. If every footballer could make the ability they are blessed with, go as far as Neil did, then the game of football would be a better place.
Playing for Celtic is an honour for any footballer, whether they know it or not, I have never witnessed any other player deserve to play for Celtic they way Neil Lennon has.
NEILLENNONCAPTAINFANTASTIC.CSC
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I have watched Neil Lennon's career closely for around 12 years now, as prior to being McGraininSpain, I was McGraininLeicester and had first hand experience of watching the transition from lower league player to top drawer performer.
I am of the view that he has been one of the finest and most consistent midfielders of his type over this period anywhere in either Scotland or England and after 5 league titles under his belt he now is knocking on the door of 'Celtic legend' status. Roy Keane perhaps only bettered him in the British game over this period. It's a debate.
I knew nothing of Lennon when he arrived at Filbert Street but of all Martin O'Neill’s purchases he was the one who made the most immediate impact and was the perfect foil to initially Garry Parker and more latterly Mustafa Izzet. Remember Martin could be a little leftfield in his signings and Marshall, Claridge, Guppy and even Savage drew gasps of chagrin from the fans, but from Day 1 Neil did his job
Work rate, tackling and sheer number of successful passes were his hallmarks hen and they remain so now. Never a maestro like a McStay, Lennon has always been about breaking down and setting up, breaking down and setting up, breaking down and setting up for 90+ minutes, week in week out. The heart, the engine room, and the embodiment of Celtic on the park for 7 seasons.
I seem to remember in what I think was his last season with Leicester the Opta stats showed that as midfielder tackler he was the best even surpassing Keane that year. In a team that was often looked down upon but in fact was full of fine player moulded by the Midas touch of Martin he was the pick and it was no surprise to me when he followed Martin and signed for Celtic.
On the eve of signing old warhorse Tully57 enquired of me whether Lennon would be a useful signing; my reply was the he would be the key signing that year. I think I was right and have often reminded Tully of that prescient moment.
At times on this blog he has been unfairly maligned and I think treated with disrespect. I think for those who have been unfair, you might want to think about what we’re losing. He might have merited another year, before he goes I hope we have found a replacement, not just in skill and energy, but in heart. It seems it was Neil’s decision so let’s respect that and assume it’s best for both Neil and the club. A glance at the BBC messageboard shows that his critics (even amongst so called Celtic supporters) are out already.
His career has not been handed to him on a plate and I urge all Celtic supporters to read his autobiog. Of all the revelations he makes, the bravest is his sharing of his mental health illness. Needlessly and selflessly declared, he has made talking about mental health easier amongst footballers and I hope amongst men of a certain age and background.
Neil has suffered hugely at the hands of thugs and bigots in Scotland not because of the type of player he is, special though he be, nor because he riles opponents. There is one reason only and that is because HE IS ONE OF US.
I am starting to feel the way I felt when the news of Martin’s departure filtered through. Sad, proud, reflective, and a little nostalgic.
Neil Lennon, One of Us
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Neil Lennon - Celtic Legend and Hero.
Worth mentioning that he also overcame a crippling back injury at the age of 20 - hence the distinctive running style.
If every anyone needed an example of how much THEY hate us dominating it's in the treatment of Neil Lennon.
I fear for our future without him in the same way I feared for our future with Paul McStay, no greater tribute can be paid.
You'll never walk alone Neil!
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Noel,you once posted a link on here of a Neil Lennon speach at a Celtic supporters function.
If you still have it,I can think of no better time to repost it.
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Paul/Kano/McGrain -
worthy tributes which have tears stinging my eyes.
Neil Lennon, Beloved of ML2
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neil lennon - true celt
4 days to 1st grandchild,we hope, midwife made another appointment for next week ! what does she know !
oh nappy days
hail hail
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WG,as it should,
Never has one man give so much for so many.
Or some other such Churchillian nonsense.
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P67-A fine tribute to a fine leader;the glue that has held the team together.However I think NL would blush at being described as'the most exceptional person in Scotland'!
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I recieved the following email from a geniune St Mirren supporting jouranlist friend of mine...
i am sad to see the wee ging go. He put a lot more into the Scottish game
than anyone will ever acknowledge. I am glad he isn't planning an O'Neill
Villa mission.
As the Scottish fans will eloquently put it, 'Cheerio, get tae f**k'.
I wouldn't put it like that incase you are offended.
I stupidly forgot to say as I was invited to that Player of the Year
do on Sunday but chickened out due to unsmartness. Another guy in the office
went and said every one of the Celtic players there had their faces tripping
them (probably because they had just come down from the euphoria of
Nakamura's winner only to be surrounded by fat cats and journos) except for
Lennon who was a typical gent.
There's nothing like chivalry to win a guys heart!
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Neil Lennon
A 24 carat celtic legend imho and near impossible to replace.
A first touch to match almost anyone, an efficiency of passing and reading of the game simply unsurpassed and a born leader and firebrand.
He has been at the heart, in every sense of the word, of each and every one of our achievements over the last few years.
Good luck Lenny.
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M67-Brave of you to admit to being a pal of'Chic'Young on these pages!
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thelongwait -
agreed, when I think of Lenny I think of the word 'economy'
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as someone who always always, looks for centre halfs as leaders, im the paul elliot, mowbray, bobo type of guy,
john kennedy brought out my 1st celtic emotion this season,
a torrid day it was on sunday. the girl was like "look at you","what are you like"
but the pride, the anguish, the length of time, it all came to a head,
after reading kanos piece i have just had my 2nd celtic emotional burst, all this in 4 days
ive always had the half empty approach to neil lennon,
but only due to his characteristics, whilst playing,
not his on the field endeavours, and certainly not his off the field ones,
a centre midfielder who had the bravery, and gumption of a towering centre half,
NEIL LENNON 7FT TALL
in my red eyes anyway
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michael
The use of the word "genuine" rules out Young, and 'Billy' Leckie. The use of the term "journalist" rules out Vougie Dipond...
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Paul and Kano, fitting tributes to a Great Celt and a great man.
I for one think he has made the correct decision to go out (hopefully) on a high with a Cup win, and expect to see him in a coaching role very soon.
His book, as you said Paul, is one of the best footballing biographies I have read, and is so honest about his battle with depression. Any sufferer of this awful disease will tell you that "celebrities" talking in this manner helps to raise the profile of the condition.
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Gordon_J
Sunday Herald's article a month or so ago...
Lennon's pride...
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Neil Lennon is the embodiment of our modern day success. He has been as important to Celtic as any other employee of the club in the last 7 years; Martin O’Neill, Peter Lawwell, Henrik Larsson.
Talk about pace of play, movement, goals scored is irrelevant when considering measured success. For measured success (trophies, progression) you need winners. Neil Lennon is the biggest winner and sorest loser I have ever seen in a Celtic jersey. Without that influence weaker men would have been allowed to be weaker. But they weren’t and that influence alone has been the difference between winning and losing trophies and medals. The off field stuff makes this all the more incredible. In truth it also allowed us to see and be awestruck at the mentality of the man. That’s the true legacy that needs to be addressed, not replacing the skill set of Neil Lennon the midfielder which will be hard enough. Neil Lennon the ultimate winner will take more replacing than Henrik the goal scorer, O’Neill the manager.
The last seven years have been the most successful period for Celtic in my lifetime and Neil has been right at its core. Today's announcement is an historic one in Celtic's history and I truly hope for the sake of all our hopes and aspirations that the magnitude of his contribution and what we need to replace is not lost on anyone at Celtic Park.
It’s a term we all over use but Neil Legend is a legend in the truest sense.
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Another test!
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for seven years lenny has been my hero for lots of reasons, the more abuse that was thrown at him the larger his shoulders became,like bbj i think he will be missed even more after hes gone by some "fans" it saddened me so much to listen to the crap directed at him mostly at cp from his own,he has lived my dream .from the wee man to the ulsterman your my TOP MAN
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After the GMTV scam, the huns are claiming compensation from the SFA for being allowed to enter a competition they had no chance of winning!
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Saddened to see Neil Lennon leave. Its best to go out on a high though and I love nothing better for Lenny to score at Ibrox ,
That would be the stuff of Legend.
Neil Lennon , One of us. Dont ever forget it.
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Michael_67
Many thanks for the link - I was out of the country and did not see the article. But that's exactly the point I was making!
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mcgraininspain
"I am starting to feel the way I felt when the news of Martins departure filtered through. Sad, proud, reflective, and a little nostalgic."
summed up what i feel but couldnt put it into words.
thanx
it feels like the end of another era.
so many in so short a space of time.
perhaps i should say its the start of the new G.O.D.
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Plat-WATLarks!!
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Michael Brattback
How's me favourite interweb stalkee these days?
THERE'S ONLY ONE NEIL LENNON!
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I think on balance, Neil has made the right decision.
Part of me had hoped for another year, perhaps used sparingly and in big games, where he excelled.
However, I don't think he would have accepted a Paul Lambert / Tom Boyd situation.
Apart from his ability, what he gave us was authority. In his prime, he was the boss, the daddy of the midfield, but it was becoming more obvious recently that his powers were on the wane and like the old lion, was finding his authority challenged, even by his own team mates.
It is going to be difficult to replace that quality, but perhaps there is someone already at the club who is willing and able to step into the breach. I'm sure Gordon Strachan will be aware if he has another leader in his ranks and now that Neil will be gone, the stage will be clear for that man to step forward.
On the playing side, I think E. Sno has the technical gifts to be an outstanding holding midfielder, with a great first touch and the eye for a quick pass. Time will tell.
In the unlikely event of getting a penalty at Ibrox, I would give it to the skipper irrespective of the score.
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Mustn't grumble,PlatWAT.
I'm pleased[and sad] that Lenny is leaving;I think it's absolutely the right decision and I think after the contribution he has made he doesn't deserve the abuse he might get if he plays for another year.
A modern Celtic great,even if he doesn't make the 1st XI of my 21st Century Bhoys.
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If you recall Martin O'Neill's first season our only blip was when we got hammered at Ibrox. Later that week Neil Lennon signed and we have been hammering them on and off the pitch since then.
Good luck Neil and thanks for the memories.
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Great news for KERRANG! CSC members!
Spinal Tap are reforming, er again, for the latest "save the world - we're a' doomed" gig in the summer!
Where do I buy tickets?
Will/is this momentous event be coverewd on the telly?
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Paul,McGraininspain,Blantyrekev,
good stuff.
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MON, Henrik Larrson and Neil Lennon were the most hated men in Scotland and for obvious reasons. They left and we all expected a wobble. Neil Lennon remained on board on reduced wages to captain Celtic.
Every time I see him play or interviewed. Every time I see his face. Every malicious piece of made up nonsense that I have read about him makes me think about the poignancy in the scribblings of his Uncle John.
A working class hero is something to be
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Awnaw,
maybe a weeee bit much there.
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PlatWAT-Your bawbees will find a home at LiveEarth.MSN.com
Me,I'm saving mine for Blondie at the Sands Centre,Carlisle.
When I was a lot younger I went to yon Apollo to see Blondie supporting Television.
and fell into the arms
of Venus de Milo..
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I am of course referring to those that made his life a misery. The landscape has just changed massively for mr. Mc Geady
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There was a midfielder named Lenny
Of enemies he had so many
For the Celtic he played
And the darnnel dismayed
The Bhoy has been worth every penny.
WordsworthGemmell
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extra n for infinity
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Awe Naw
Yes Id imagine that Lenny's departure will turn up the heat on McGeady from the thousands of mindless idiots in this country. However given the level of developement I expect from Aiden next year, I am sure he would have been getting the majority of it anyway. There is one thing to be a figure of everything they hate (Peter Grants of this world), but to be an expectional footballer with it really gets them going.
Aiden has had the best role model and example of how to handle this bile.....
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Always sad to see a true Celtic legend move on. It is time. Thanks very much Neil for your contributions to our Club - there will always be a warm welcome for you at Paradise.
Looking forward to seeing you lift the Scottish Cup to crown your period as a worthy Captain of Celtic.
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Great article Paul,
Kano - I couldn't add anything to that tribute. You make an outstanding point that he knew what was in store for him by signing for Celtic. He had been given a new outstanding contract by Leicester, was well settled in the greatest league in the world, had absolutely no hassle socially or on the pitch - yet he signed for us knowing all would change. Bravery Neilly Bhoy! Bravery!
Of all the print volumes written by the stalwarts of the Scottish media on Neil Lennon - let's add those in broadcasting too - there is one question I have never heard asked:
Why did the Rangers fans start boo-ing Neil Lennon?
I've heard so much justification from so many quarters about the booing of Lennon.....
"He brings it on himself....."
"He's always moaning...."
"It's the type of player he is...."
Let's get one thing straight.
Neil Lennon played for Northern Ireland in his first international game since signing for Celtic and was boo-ed incessantly. This was followed by death threats from loyalists.
He then played for Celtic against Rangers for the first time at Ibrox and from the minute he touched the ball, he was boo-ed incessantly.
He was then boo-ed by every other Scotish team he played against - to varying degrees, Hearts being the worst.
Don't let anybody ever tell you that Neil Lennon is boo-ed because of anything other than he is a top class footballer from Northern Ireland, high profile in the sense he cost £6m and played in the premiership, who is steeped in Gaelic, Nationalist culture and is a Cathlolic - AND he opted to play for Celtic.
The fact that no-one in the media has asked the original reason for the boo-ing is shameful.
Great tribute my great pal McGrain - 100% spot-on amigo! I remember the conversation well. Nearly as well as the 147 times you've reminded me since about it.
I also remember much further back conversations (early 90's maybe?) about our desparate need for a holding midfielder to complement The Holy Picture in midfield. One that would be affordable in those cash-strapped days. You came up with Mark Draper from Aston Villa - doubt we could have afforded him anyway but he was a very good player in that position, who would have done well for us.
Well, we got 10 times the player in Neil Lennon. Just wait till future historians link up the number of games won with his appearances - I'd be interested to know how many players have a better record.
As McGrain says though .....over and above all statistical success: HE IS ONE OF US.
Neilly Bhoy - We salute you
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Michael_67,
I know where you are coming from but all the footballing ability in the world is not going to make him feel vulnerable waiting for a traffic light to change colour
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McGraininSpain - spot on about the importance of Lenny's signing that season.
We had 'demolished' them 6-2 at CP, but they had also gubbed us 5-1 before the man was signed. His fighting spirit, drive and determination was a major factor in MON's first title.
My memory might be suspect, but I recall one incident in possibly his first game at Ibrox, where he slid into a challenge with Big Amo and clinically took the ball and the man. No foul and a stretcher for the big man!
After that he BOSSED most OF games and I really hope that he does it again on May 5th.
A winning goal would be asking a lot, but we can dream!
TTTT
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Michael Brattback
BLONDIE???!!!!!
You are paying good money too see F*%%$$G BLONDIE!!!!
I give up!!!
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Plat-Ry Cooder's sold out`¬>
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Tully,
we KNOW why he was booed,and so does Neil Lennon,and so does every right thinking person on the planet.
We do not need them to discuss it.
We can publicise it ourselves.
Nobody there,who does not already know,is in the slightest bit interested.
It is to people outside of Scotland that it should be highlighted to.
The more people who know of the sickness the sooner it will be cured.
Neil Lennon himself invited ridicule and persecution for the belief in the same thing.
I hope he has at the very least,made a difference,even a small one,to the future behaviour of idiots in Scotland.
I think,what you mention will be discussed,not now,but in the near future.
And it will be looked upon with some shame,as it should be.
Let's hope the "near" future isn't that far away.
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TTTT
rekon if we both bet Neil to score the winner at Ibrox he is in with a chance !
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I was there when Lennon scored his first goal, at East End Park.I am sure it was just after he had received death threats. The joy on his face was brilliant, he ran straight to MON to celebrate.
They obviously had a special relationship.
It is to both of their credit that Neil and WGS appear to have such a good relationship. The mutual respect was there for everyone to see on Sunday. He has made Gordons job that little bit easier.
It also must have been difficult to watch all his teammates move on, some through choice but others persuaded (being kind there). No newspaper headlines, no moaning.
Graveson and Keane signed in the last 18 months.
No tempremental fit. Just got on with his job.
When Bobo goes, thats the Uefa Final team gone.Only 4 short years later. We really have moved on.
Big Billy was still playing in 75, Bobby Lennox was still playing in the early 80s.
Oh well, onwards and upwards.
Every team needs a Lennon. I think the control and confidence he brought to the side will be very difficult to replace.
Thats another reason why he is disliked in Scottish football, I can't think of anyone with his commitment and pride in his position and to the club.
Let's not forget how his opposite number at Ibrox reacted to different training regimes and managerial style.
You never know what you had til its gone.
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rammybhoy,
good post,I will only dig you up on one thing.
he does not have an opposite number at Ibrox.
If they did have,they would have been a far greater force than they have been.
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You'll be sorely missed Neil.
You gave up a lot to come and play here and you took a ridiculous amount of abuse just to wear the hoops.
You go with a place in all our hearts and a name that goes down in the history of our club alongside your own heroes. It doesn't get much better than that.
Good luck and God bless you Lenny.
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As has been said, Neil Lennon is one of us and is hated because of it. Actually, I think he was more, He was one of us living the dream and was their worst nightmare: a Tim with sheer class in his position.
It has been said too that no matter the score at Ibrox, in the unlikely event that we get a penalty, he should take it. Of course, he should, and if he scores, what a fitting end to his Celtic career. That is a dream to cherish by all Celtic supporters.
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Kano
I knew as I was typing that that point would be pulled up. Didn't think so quickly ;-)
You know where I was going with it and he is their closest to an 'opposite number' or 'counterpart', sorry brain isn't in gear today.
The fact is, he will be very difficult to replace, shouldn't be too difficult to find an opposite number to their captain though...lol
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Rammybhoy,
wee aside to your four year thingy.
How many of the seville team do you reckon are still playing at a high level,or playing at all,now.
Jock still had a number of youngsters in that team.
There weren't that many in the seville team.
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AweNaw etc....@16.09
You do not really expect to get away with trying to turn this family blog, into a rest home for old roués,do you?
Grow up, clean out you brain-box, put away your childish expressions, be a man.
We should be disappointed that you have resorted to profane and proscribed language, but we are not.
You are only revealing your lascivious thoughts, which we can do without, thank you very much.
Daisy/Rose.
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i think if we do get a penalty,he would refuse it because someone else would be more likely to score.
if this scenario arises,I think the Celtic end should respond with a chorus of "we don't care if you score or not Neil"
I think it would possibly be the first time that this would be the case!!
If only he could be pulled down to earn it.
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kano -
he was pulled down the last time and the inevitable happened as it would again
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Kano
Agree.
Only Henrik, Stan, Maloney, Lennon and Bobo would have been playing this season (barring injuries etc.
So, what are we better doing, trying to emulate Jock Stein with younger homegrown players or bring in the right blend of experience (obviously at a price) and aim for another Seville?
WGS has done a splendid job and the fact that we are only 4 years down the line from the best Celtic team in years, only a couple are left, the wage bill slashed and we are still winning leagues, proves it.
What is the next step though?
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My favourite memory of Neil Lennon was in a home game against Dundee, I think it was December 2004.
We'd just been put out the Champions league in the midweek, a real scunner v Lyon away. You know the game.
The Dundee game wasn't one of those ones that attracts players to come to Celtic.
Baltic Parkhead, horizontal sleet. Fans miserable, players still a bit mopey.
We were 2-1 down at HT. My seat was right at the front of the North Stand. With the crowd a wee bit subdues, i could hear a lot of what was going on on the park, especially from Mr Lennon!
He gave anyone who came near him pelters, telling them to buck their ideas up, there was a championship to be won and they had better get down to wining it.
This was imparted in a fairly assertive way, using phrases Paul would not allow me to repeat on CQN!
There is a time and a place for such talk and it sure worked that afternoon. We won 3-2 and I have no doubt if it wasn't for Neil lennon we'd have lost that game.
Who knows how many more games have been like this?
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Let me rephrase that,if only he could be pulled down to earn it,then actually be awarded one!!
He must be due a "light" award.
After all aren't refereeing decisions supposed to even out over a season?
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NEIL LENNON....
Gordon Strachan - My players just don't like getting beat. We have players here, like Neil Lennon, who set the standard
Momo Sylla - I look forward to seeing Lenny, just to give him a nice cuddle, I always say to people: before you judge him, you need to try to know him. He's a lovely guy and I want to say Lenny, I love you!' "He's good with the young players, he doesn't have a big head. I don't understand how people can criticise Lenny after everything he has given to Celtic. I didn't know how important he was in the Celtic system until I watched from the stand a couple of times. Then I saw. He protects the defence and links the midfield. He's the type of player who sacrifices himself for the team and I respect people like that."
Rad Douglas - “Lenny pays his own way to most supporters functions when he knows there are expenses available. I've known him to pay for flights and accommodation to go to presentations and he's happy to do it. When Lenny's in among the fans he's fantastic with them. He's top drawer. He doesn't just stay as long as he has to, he goes out of his way to show his appreciation of the supporters. I've seen him give away boots and kit on the spur of the moment because it's for a good cause. Lenny's also only too pleased to make hospital visits and you can't put a price on the satisfaction that's provided for the sick children he's helped cheer up or elderly supporters. Every ground Lenny plays at he's slaughtered and in a way I think it's because he's seen as a key man for Celtic.
Rab continued: “There wasn't a player at Celtic in my time who didn't appreciate what Lenny brought to the team. I often wondered why he carried on taking the stick, why he didn't just get away from Scottish football. But then I'd see him laugh off the stick and be all the more determined to get trophies for Celtic.”
Rab added: “Lenny's one of the best professionals I've ever met in terms of his preparation and will to win. Being Captain of Celtic means a lot and now he's close to picking up a second successive title.”
Nakamura - "I'm very pleased, but this isn't something you can get on your own. It's down to the whole team and the fans.
"All the players deserved this award. For example, a player like Neil Lennon is not really in the limelight but is so important in the back-ground. Without players like him, we wouldn't have our style of play."
Carlo Ancelotti - They have good forwards in (John) Hartson and (Chris) Sutton and also have Juninho, who is a good player, but the one I prefer is (Neil) Lennon.
"I like that type of player. He is defensive and committed and reminds me of me."
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Surely we couldn't expect a Scottish referee to give Neil an Alan Shearer Testimonial type penalty at Ibrox.....:-0
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Rammybhoy,
A small one.
I think it was a Chinese proverb that stated.
Every great journey starts with one step.
Thankfully I think we are only beginning this journey and I think there is a lot of good things to come.
If we are realistic.
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Kano
I agree once again
I think next season could be really exciting and WGS has been planning for the day Neil leaves.
The 'kids' that we have now will have benefited from the league title win and also from having someone like Neil to set the benchmark for conduct and application.
It will be interesting to see who grabs the mantle
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Thanks Neil - a true and loyal servant, go in peace with your head held high and sorry for all the sectarian crap you've had to put up with over the years from the bigots in the streets, stadiums and media.
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I think we need a player like gatuso to replace NL, any up and coming 'agressive and always seems to be in the right place to break things up midfielders ' available for under 2 mill?
P8ddy, hope you are doing ok m8.
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Daisy/Rose
If I have offended thee in anyway at all then it would seem that I have done a good job. I fully expect it to be deleted in due course hence why it is stands alone. John Lennon was an IRA subversive after all.
If I was to tell you to GIRFUY would that be deleted too ? :-)
I´ll presume that you are named after a pair of cows ? :-) bovine one´s of course Moooooooooh
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Lennys favourite celebration....smoking an imaginary cigar. Should we all take a cigar to the cup final with us?
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31003
smoking ban
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Lenny´s a Millionaire repeat ad infinitum ... my favourite Lenny moment
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pretend yer smokin it
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For some strange reason,
I think the player who will "grab the mantle" for a couple of seasons will be Paul Hartley!!
Don't know why I think that,but he strikes me as someone who has the will to do the unpopular job if required,well,and take the abuse that comes with it for the sake of the team.
He seemed genuinely delighted on Sunday,probably more so than most everybody else apart from Neil Lennon and Lee Naylor amongst the players,even in the footage from the dressing room.
I know he is not rated by a lot of people,but I think the position takes a lot of experience and a deep feeling for who you are playing for.
He appears to have that.
Every team needs a "hod carrier" as Eric Cantona so eloquently put it.
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I'm a Derbyshirebhoy and one day I may get the blog to accept me in that form again. For that reason I've beeen unable to join in much of the righteous celebrations everyone's enjoyed in the past few days.
I couldn't let this news pass however without a comment.
In a way I've been wanting this moment to arrive for quite some time as I feel it will enable Gordon Strachan to let us see more of this younger faster fitter side he's spoken about but there is also a significant part of me that knows that it will only be in retrospect that I may come truly to appreciate what Neil Lennon gave to Celtic.
Kano and others not least Paul in his article have said it all in eloquent fashion. I'd simply like to say thanks Neil for the memories and afore ye go there's a cup to be won and hopefully a final victory at Ibrox as a fitting tribute to a real Celt.
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NBNB-I think if wee Rino had been able to stay on last night ACM would have got the draw[or better].
Every team needs one player who just marches to the sound of the guns.
Maybes if ACM are serious about Artur we should ask them to throw in RG and Kaka'!
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Cheers Derbyshirebhoy.
Noel is the man to sort your name problems.
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Having posted on here under my previous moniker of Newarthillbhoy, I have nearly always stoutly defended and supporter our captain.
There have been times when I have wavered and he has proven me so wrong. I thought his time had come at the end of last season, but he proved me wrong.
I can't put any more eloquently than anyone else waht Lenny's departure means. It is not just the end of an era.
Whilst Mr Strachan is Celtic's head, Lenny is Celtic's heartbeat. It is not just the case of finding a new captain, we need a new heartbeat.
Neil Lennon---I Thank You
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I think we should make an inquiry for Gattuso.
I happen to think that we would be treated with a lot more respect in our approach than we would have been in let's say ,,,,last December!!
I also happen to think that Gattuso(having a Scottish wife if I am not mistaken)does not have have the snobbish attitude to Scottish football that most of his countrymen would have,or most of any other nationality's countrymen would have for that matter.
I would not imagine he would be on superstar wages at Milan.
And it may tweak his competitive spirit to come over and put one over on the team that wouldn't play him and sold him.
And his wife is Scottish.Did I mention that?
Maybe we could make an offer to his wife?
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Paul
The last sentence, nice touch.
Fortunately life isn't like that and we don't get to choose. (Yes, I mean fortunately).
Both will be fine thanks.
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Kano,
you reminded me of a laugh out loud moment during last nights commentary during the M.U Milan game. The commentator was waxing lyrical about how good looking Paolo Maldini is. It was bordering on the homo erotic, saying how good looking he was, not a scar on the man after all these years playing as a CB full back and at the top level etc. and then came he out with this belter "yep but if you look at the face of Rino Gattuso you can see who has been doing Maldini´s spade work for the last few years !
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Awnaw,
if I had a different set up,I would probably fancy him myself.
Gattuso I mean.
Then again,I always have liked the rough types.
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Hail Hail Neil Lennon!
I had thought he might remain for another season to give us the further benefits of his leadership and his desire to win. Hopefully those characteristics will have rubbed off onto the other players and be his legacy - in addition to the silverware he helped deliver of course.
The many tributes above say more than I could. It's clear that Neil will leave a big gap and I only hope we can find another player of such character to fill it.
A true Celtic legend.
All the best Neil!!!
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For what it is worth. IMHO the Hamilton born and bred Celtic supporter will become the new heartbeat for Celtic, for at least the next three years of our dominance.
Mr Hartley its time to grow into the jersey!
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Hi Paul,
I'd like to wish Mr Lennon the best of luck where ever his future takes him.
Good luck Neil, I hope you sign out with a Scottish Cup winners medal, though I would trade that to see you score the winning goal at Ibrox I wonder what percentage of fans would agree with you on this one, the biggest problem being that Rangers will win the game so for this to happen he would need to score an O.G :-)
NaeBreadNaeBrains @ 17.08 :- I know Mr Gattusso is quoted as saying he would like to return to Glasgow before ending his carreer but I think he meant more for Rangers. Though I suppose it would make a change for you to sign an ex Rangers player who isn't a reject ;-)
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AweNaw.. etc. @17.08
We have decided that you are not worth the effort.
Usually,we find that an individual has at least one redeeming feature in his persona, that is worth saving.
Alas, after a long and futile scan of your recent communications to this family site...
We cannot for the life of us, make a case for your re-rehabilitation to the world of civility and good taste.
Therefore, you can carry on your un-merry way,and proceed to dot your remarks with your usual brand of undignified and crass, profanity.
Daisy/Rose.
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Edward,thanks for your comment regarding Neil Lennon.
As I said,maybe not next week,but you are proof there is hope!
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Edward,
Gattuso left under some smoke at Ibrox. DA didn´t fancy him. A WC and CL winners medal dont come easy.
Carlsberg dont do David Murray Nightmare scenarios but if they did .. if Gattuso were to sign for Celtic I´d love to be in Scotland on that day. The last day I had in Scotland was the day PLG got the sack.
How would Murrays media lackies spin that one ? Would he get booed by all and sundry like Lenny and Aiden ?
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Due to the fact that our insignificant sun is unable to cover our wee planet so that we can all converse at the same time,it is goodnight from me.
Or good morning as the case may be.
See ya.
Watchow,I hope my posts were up to your standard and didn't offend you.
It would make me so happy.
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Daisy,Rose
your just milking this one aren´t you ?
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I hope Neil Lennon reads this blog.
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ANNAOAN :- I don't understand why Mr Advocaat didn't rate him, I know that as he progressed we couldn't have held onto him but I would love to have had him for a few years more. If he ever came to play for Celtic I couldn't see him getting any more than the normal abuse given out to Celtic players as he does seem to be held in high regard by most of the Rangers support. Though a good game against us for Celtic could soon change that lol.
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Best of luck to Neil Lennon, a player who had to endure appalling abuse to play for the club he loved.
Shame on those in the press who trivialised his suffering, or even attempted to blame him for it.
And at this moment, can I raise a glass to the Martin O'Neill era, which, with Lennon's departure, has truly ended.
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