Lennon left to pick up the pieces after Mowbray departure

Neil Lennon was today beginning the process of trying to salvage something from Celtic’s miserable season after Tony Mowbray’s ill-fated nine-month reign came to an end.

The club yesterday announced Mowbray’s departure, less than 24 hours after their heaviest league defeat outside an Old Firm derby for 30 years, the 4-0 thrashing at St Mirren.

The 46-year-old’s 13th loss in charge, which left the Hoops 10 points behind Rangers in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League having played two more games, proved the final straw.

Reserve-team coach and former Celtic captain Neil Lennon was appointed interim manager as the club begin the hunt for a permanent successor.

Reacting to his departure and that of assistants Mark Venus and Peter Grant, former West Brom boss Mowbray said: “Naturally, I am very disappointed to be leaving Glasgow Celtic.

“I am very proud to have not only managed but also played for a club with such great tradition and that has tremendous roots in football history.

“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the players and also to my staff who supported me so well. Finally, I would like to wish the club every success in the future.”