Lennon steps into the hot seat

The first-team coach has stepped into the Parkhead hot-seat for the rest of the season, after the resignation of Tony Mowbray and his backroom staff.

The former Celtic captain has been asked to steady the ship and to try and salvage something by finishing the season with the Scottish Cup and ex-Hoops star Lubo Moravcik believes it is a great appointment and Lennon could go on and make a similar impact as former player Guardiola has done at Barcelona's Nou Camp.

Moravcik isn't making any rash predictions that Lennon can lead Celtic to the Champions League but believes he can help them overturn Rangers' title domination.The Slovakian said: "Neil is a big character and he lifts everyone roundabout him.

"Neil is a Celtic man and he is exactly what the club needs.He knows all about the club and is a legend at Celtic Park.Neil is a very passionate guy and can do the same sort job as Guardiola did when he went into Barcelona.

"Guardiola had been coaching the youth teams and then stepped up to become the main coach.His career hasn't looked back. He has won the everything in Spain and the Champions League.

Neil might not have the top level experience in management but he has played at the top level with Leicester City, Celtic, Nottingham Forest and Northern Ireland.

Moravick also believes it is a shrewd appointment to take former Swedish international Johan Mjallby in as his No. 2.adding :"Neil is certainly capable of going into Celtic and getting them back up and fighting Rangers for the SPL title again.The ex-Parkhead playmaker is exactly what Celtic needs because he won't accept second best.

"I am very happy for Neil because he is a big friend of mine, Moravcik explained."He was great to play alongside and he was always a good example and an inspiration to his team mates roundabout him.

"Neil was always very vocal and hated losing, although there were a few of us in that dressing room who were of similar ilk.Neil wanted to win every game and if you didn't play to the standards he expected then he was quick to let you know.

"It was the same in training because 'Lenny' was always at the front, leading by example.If does the same as a manager then he could have a really top career."