Former Celtic midfielder has praised Neil Lennon, stating that the Irishman should be remembered for the successes of the past as opposed to last year’s horrible season. Lennon came under some intense pressure in the final months of his time at Celtic Park but Ledley has offered some perspective on Lennon’s status.
Speaking to The Celtic Way, Ledley said that Lennon helped bring success to the club in his first spell as manager as it allowed other managers to come in and build upon the foundations.
“Lenny came back to Celtic at a difficult time, especially after what Brendan Rodgers had achieved with the club.
“He was under pressure from the moment he took the job for a second time. I’m sure there are people out there who will always worship what Lenny did for Celtic.
“He changed the whole philosophy and style of play when he took over the club from the beginning. He set the tone for other managers to come in and copy that blueprint.
“I am sure he will be a bit harsh on himself with regards to not winning the 10 but Lenny will go down as Celtic legend. There is nothing surer.”
Lennon, 50, resigned in the summer of 2014 with Celtic having won 3IAR. He was replaced by Ronny Deila as Celtic boss but Lennon’s highlights included famous European victories and a Last 16 appearance in The Champions League. Ledley is right to suggest that he is a legend of the club, even if last year was painful for all to take.
Brendan Rodgers built on from Ronny Deila, created a monopoly on Scottish football. His abrupt departure in February 2019 is viewed differently a few years on but Lennon was able to step into the breach. Lennon was fortune to be reappointed a second time but managed to seal some impressive results during his second tenure as Celtic matched their own record of 9IAR. His attempts to win 10IAR ended in disaster as he vacated the role in February, with the League all but mathematically lost. It was a perfect storm last season, COVID-19 played an enormous part in it and Lennon was helpless towards creating momentum in his squad.
Supporters rightly felt aggrieved with the way things transpired last year, especially with Lennon’s seeming reluctance to step aside even though the season was destined for failure. With that said, Lennon won ten titles with Celtic, eight Scottish Cups and three league cups in two spells as manager and as a player. He will always be a Celtic legend but it was clear that his time as manager was up. Lennon will be recognised for all that he has done for the club but it may take some time as last season has been incredibly tough for everyone involved.
The feel-good factor is back at Celtic under Ange and Lennon is looking for his next move as a manager, best of luck to him.
