GRIFF, HAYES, TAYLOR UPDATES

NEIL LENNON took the opportunity to reintroduce Leigh Griffiths to the first team during the 4-0 triumph over Livingston at Parkhead yesterday.

The 29-year-old striker, who made his last appearance during a 12-minute cameo in the 3-1 win over Hearts in August, replaced Odsonne Edouard, who claimed his 14th goal of the season against Gary Holt’s team, in the 68th minute.

There was a double acclaim from the fans as they showed their appreciation for the latest efforts of the Frenchman while welcoming back Griffiths to proceedings.

Unfortunately, he failed to mark the occasion with a goal, but boss Lennon, speaking to the Scottish Sun, said: “You can see how popular Leigh is with the fans.

“It’s a timely comeback from him with the volume of games we’ve got.”

There was an opportunity when it looked as though Griffiths was about to score his fourth goal of an interrupted campaign when Jeremie Frimpong, who ran amok on the right wing, delivered an inviting cross, but the comeback Celt’s timing was just out and the chance was missed.

Lennon also saw versatile Republic of Ireland star Jonny Hayes come off five minutes after the turnaround to be replaced by Greg Taylor.

He explained: “Jonny popped his shoulder, so we will have to scan it and see how it is, hopefully not too bad.

“We made the change and Greg Taylor came in and did a great job.”

The Scotland international looked comfortable in only his second outing since his £2.25million arrival from Kilmarnock on transfer deadline day and came so close to scoring his first goal for the champions with a drive that clattered off the woodwork.

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