Neil Lennon has resigned as manager of Celtic with immediate effect following a ‘difficult season’ in which the club struggled to defend their Scottish Premiership title.
Lennon’s departure comes as Celtic sits 18 points behind Glasgow rivals, Rangers and suffered embarrassing early exits in Scottish League Cup plus Europa League.
Speaking on his decision to resign after enduring a ‘difficult season due to so many factors’, Lennon said: “I have worked as hard as ever to try and turn things around, but unfortunately we have not managed to get the kind of run going that we have needed.”
Lennon also spoke of how much effort he gave the club across two stints as manager, including a historic quadruple treble after defeating Hearts in December’s Scottish Cup Final.
The 49 year-old also spoke of how much Celtic means to him for him to step down at this point in time, saying: “The Club will always be part of me. I will always be a Celtic supporter myself and I will always want the best for Celtic.”
Lennon expressed wishes to thank everyone at Celtic for their support alongside his own family and Celtic fans.
Celtic Chief Executive, Peter Lawwell paid tribute to Lennon for his work and achievements with the club, describing him as ‘a true Celtic man’ who will always be held in high regard at the club.
Acknowledging the poor season that Celtic have endured and Lennon’s fight to try and reverse their poor form, Lawwell said: “I have watched Neil fight many battles over many years, on and off the field, with a courage and tenacity few could match. Even this season, he has fought so hard and worked tirelessly to turn things around.
“While this season has not progressed as we would have liked, it cannot diminish the character or integrity of a man who has given the Club so much.”
Lawwell added that Lennon ‘is a man of quality and decency’ and ‘will always be part of the fabric of Celtic’ plus always welcome at Celtic Park.
Lawwell concluded by expressing best wishes for Lennon in whatever direction his career takes him next, saying: “On behalf of everyone at the club, and personally, I would like to thank Neil for his work as our manager and I wish him and his family good health and continued success in everything they do.”
Celtic’s Principal shareholder, Dermot Desmond also commented on Lennon’s departure, saying: “Neil is a Celtic legend both as a player and manager. He has given so much to the Club, and with his success over the last number of years – including winning a Treble in his own right – he will be very difficult to replace.
“We thank Neil sincerely for all he has done for the club and we wish him every success going forward.”
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