NEIL Lennon described winning his first title as Celtic manager as his “greatest achievement” in football – but the elated Armagh says guiding the Hoops to a second successive SPL Championship is even more special.
Hundreds of Hoops fans from Donegal were in Glasgow today to see Celtic beat Terry Butcher’s Inverness 4-1 with a stylish second half performance and two cracking goals – one a back flick by Hooper and the other a stunning strike by Samaras.
“It’s like any other championship – there is a feeling of pride and happiness, along with real joy for the players, the club and the supporters,” Lennon told celticfc.net
“It’s always a momentous feeling and occasion when it comes round, and it´s a tremendous effort by everyone.
“This means more to me. The first time was brilliant at Kilmarnock. There was a real anticipation going into the game and then there was the way we played that day. That was vindication for me in taking the job on and being given the job. I got a lot of confidence from that.
“But to do it again, it´s your remit and priority at the start of the season, and obviously with the Champions League run and getting to the cup final, it all just adds up to what´s been a fantastic, memorable season for us.”
At home and abroad, it´s been a wonderful campaign for Celtic, with the UEFA Champions League adventure figuring prominently among the highlights. It´s been a fitting way to mark the club´s 125th anniversary.
“We had other targets in mind this season,” said the manager. “The season started so early with the Champions League, and it´s going to start early again in July.
“There have been times where we have been a little inconsistent, predominately after the Champions League games, and that’s something we need to improve on going into next year as you are always looking to improve and progress the team. So the experience from that will stand us in good stead if we qualify again.”
Along every step of the way of the journey, once again, have been the Celtic support, and the Irishman paid them a glowing tribute for the backing they have given him and the players.
“These are difficult times,” he said. “We are in the grip of a recession but we still have a huge volume of support, and we are forever grateful to them.
“The backing they have given me in the three years has been fantastic and I can´t speak highly enough of them.
“They are, without doubt, untouchable when it comes to supporting their club in comparison to any other supporters, and I hope they take a lot of really good memories from this season, domestically and in Europe.”
The manager was also keen to acknowledge the contribution of his backroom staff – Johan Mjallby, Garry Parker, Danny McGrain and Stevie Woods.
“You can´t do the job without them,” he said. “They have a great knowledge of the game. Stevie has done a great job with the goalkeepers, particularly Fraser, who has really improved his game this season.
“He´s a very conscientious worker. He´s always looking to better himself and his goalies. Danny, Gary and Johan have great knowledge and experience. They are all good personalities and get respect from the players and that´s highly important.”
Party on Bhoys!
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