McNeill hails Lennon

Celtic legend Billy McNeill has hailed Neil Lennon a miracle worker as he looked forward to what will be a crucial Old Firm derby at Parkhead next Wednesday night.

Lennon’s rejuvenated Hoops side have reduced the gap behind Rangers at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League from 15 points to four with seven straight SPL wins – albeit Celtic had two games in hand at the time of the greater differential – while the Ibrox men have struggled for form in recent weeks.

Celtic host Kilmarnock and Rangers go to St Mirren on Saturday, but there is growing anticipation ahead of the visit of the champions to the east end of Glasgow.

Speaking yesterday at Hampden where, along with Rangers legend Walter Smith, he was helping to publicise ESPN’s football fixtures across the festive period, the former Celtic captain and manager had high praise for the Irishman.

“I was interested in how the mix of players would get together as a team and Neil has performed a wee bit of a miracle there, he really has,” said McNeill.

“When he makes a change he seems to get a turn from the players and to be quite frank, he has been a great success, I really think he has performed brilliantly.

“Things look good for them.

“Celtic are sitting in a powerful position and this part of the season is one that proves if they are capable of winning the league.

“This is often when teams lose their way but at the moment Celtic look positive.

“They look as if they are playing well enough to get to the top of the league.

“When you come to the turn of the year, you have the Old Firm game, which is always important.

“A result in that game would work wonders for Celtic.”