Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon couldn’t resist a wee dig as he gave his predictions ahead of the Viaplay Cup final.
Lennon was in charge of Celtic the last time they took on Rangers in the League Cup final in a dramatic 1-0 win as Christopher Jullien became the unlikely hero.
During that match, Jeremie Frimpong was sent off for the Hoops and striker Alfredo Morelos missed the penalty which was latterly awarded.
Just over three years later, Lennon has an inclination that the exact same will happen as he joked with Alan Brazil of what time Rangers would get a penalty during the match as the former Ipswich striker wound up Ally McCoist.
“I would do a double. Penalty for Rangers and a red card for Celtic. I’d be all over that,” said Lennon as quoted by [the Scottish Sun].
Nick Walsh will be the man in the middle, aided by John Beaton as VAR assistant which won’t fill any Celtic supporters much hope as Beaton had an absolute shocker during the previous New Year derby match.
Whether or not Celtic win the cup, it is hoped that refereeing decisions don’t overshadow the game and that the main talking points after it are about the football played on the park by both sides.
Lennon is backing his old side to do the business and win the first piece of silverware on offer and gave an insight into what the build up is like as Hoops boss.
“It’s really intense, even the build up. The best thing about it is when the game starts and you can kind of get lost in the game.
“Celtic will probably go in as favourites but you can’t call it. For me it can go either way.
“I think the first goal in these games is always really important. Celtic are in great form, they’ve been perfect since the draw at Ibrox.
“It will be about which team adapts best to the atmosphere and the conditions. In terms of the league, they are nine clear with a huge goal difference.
“Psychologically if Celtic win it will totally deflate Rangers. But if Rangers win it will give them a bit lift until the end of the season.
“I think they [Celtic] will win 2-1 or 3-1 – I think both teams will score.
“But they’re playing so well, they can score from so many areas. I really like the mentality of this team and they are so fluid.”
Don’t think that was * rangers Lennon took on as they were dead . I think you mean Sevco … pleased to have informed you correctly.