Despite a miserable record of just two wins in 12 games, no wins at Parkhead since September and being dumped out of three competitions already this season, Neil Lennon has been, remarkably, backed by the Celtic board – until the New Year at least, with the Old Firm derby at Ibrox possibly his last in charge.
After fans repeated their protests of a week ago, the board released yet another statement regarding the future of their under pressure manager in which they basically give him until the next Old Firm game to save his job, as reported by The Scottish Sun.
“In light of the ongoing speculation regarding the position of our football manager, Neil Lennon, the Board of Celtic Football Club wishes to make clear its continuing support for Neil and his backroom team.
“The Board continues to work closely with Neil and his team to support them as they seek to do so and progress will be reviewed in the new year.”
In a move eerily similar to when David Murray famously gave Alex McLeish five games – only to win none of them – and keep his job, it appears as though they are letting Lennon try to save face by beating Hearts in the Scottish Cup from last season, if you think they have reacted badly to being beaten in the league cup by Ross County, imagine if he loses that one, Christmas would well and truly be ruined for those of a green and white persuasion.
Celtic haven’t shown any signs of recovery recently so keeping Lennon in charge, with players who have downed tools, could be a game changer in the title race as is leaving any decision until the New Year when the transfer window re-opens, they could be looking for a new manager at a time when new players are a priority and we should not be reticent in making hay, both on and off the pitch, whilst the sun shines.