HAPPY: NEIL LENNON
THE HOOPS are back on top of the SPL tonight after beating Motherwell 2-0 away – and it could easily have been many more.
And boss Neil Lennon is hoping the manner of Celtic’s display will give his side a boost ahead of the Champions League clash away to Spartak Moscow next week.
“They will go into that game after that full of confidence now,” said Neil after a game which saw Hooper net on 32 minutes and a Cummins og double the lead three minutes later.
Celtic had numerous other chances including a penalty which Scott Brown missed, his second spot kick miss in a row.
“Psychologically, it’s important. It’s six games in with a game in hand,” said Lennon.
“It was important we went top of the league today. People will be looking up at us now and that is important for the team and the club.”
He admitted Brown won’t take the next spot kick; but he was keen to focus on the many many positives.
“We were brilliant from start to finish,” said Lennon.
“It should have been a lot more, but I’m delighted at the way we played.
“We defended well and, certainly, some of our attacking play was excellent.
“We could have made the game a lot more comfortable, but it was one-way traffic more or less.
“Once we adjusted to their system a wee bit, we were superb.
“Our front three, their movement, the midfield three were great and I have to say I was very impressed with the back four.”
Lennon was full of praise for full-back Emilio Izaguirre as well as stirkers Georgios Samaras and Miku and midfielder Joe Ledley.
“Izaguirre, that’s the best I’ve seen him this season and he couldn’t have timed it any better really,” added the manager.
“It was great to see Samaras back and looking in full flow and Miku and Joe got a good run out, so they are all in good touch.
“I think we are through unscathed. Miku came off with a bit of cramp, but he should be okay.
“The only worry for us is young Adam Matthews, who rolled his ankle yesterday and we’ll see how he is in the next couple of days.”
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