Lennon’s backing for Celtic Park crunch tie

Neil Lennon believes Celtic Park would be the ideal venue for Scotland’s home European Championship qualifier against the Republic of Ireland — despite many of the visiting squad’s familiarity with the venue.

Hampden could be unavailable for Scotland’s game against the Irish on November 14 as work to reopen the stadium following its temporary redevelopment for the Commonwealth Games will not be finished until late in the year.

Celtic Park and Ibrox are the only serious contenders to host the game with the 60,000 capacity at Parkhead — 10,000 more than Rangers’ stadium — giving it the edge for a match that is sure to be a sell-out.