Celtic’s season could be shaped by Basle result, says Lennon

CELTIC star Neil Lennon admits defeat in Switzerland tomorrowon Wednesday could see the Scottish champions’ season crumble before their eyes.

The Parkhead side are within touching distance of the money-spinning Champions League group stages having come from behind to beat FC Basle 3-1 at home a fortnight ago.

But the midfielder has warned his team-mates the Swiss champions showed enough to suggest the tie was still far from over.

“It’s not dead at all,” said Lennon. “Basle played brilliantly in the first leg and we know how difficult it’s going to be.

“We’ve just got to make sure we concentrate from the start this time.

“It’s a really massive game and this game could shape the season for us really.”

Basle stunned the Scottish Premier League leaders by snatching a first-minute lead in Glasgow and winger Didier Agathe fears another nightmare start could put Celtic in trouble. The former Hibernian man said: “I am looking forward to Wednesday.

“It’s a big game and it was good to get the result two weeks ago, but we need to be careful because they are dangerous up front.

“Basle have proved what a good side they are and will be looking to qualify for the Champions League and we don’t expect it to be easy.

“There’s no pressure on us. We don’t think about the money the club could make.

“We know it’s important for the club, the fans and we will try to do our best for the club. But we want to play on the top stage.”

Lennon went some way to putting his international retirement behind him as Celtic beat Partick 1-0 on Saturday.

He was forced to retire from Northern Ireland duty after receiving a death threat but the midfielder admits the welcome from both sets of fans before the game left him emotional.

“It was a great reception from both sets of fans in the warm up,” said Lennon. “I must admit it was quite touching and I only live around the corner from here so it was great.”