Charlie Nicholas took an opportunity this week to have a go at Neil Lennon while simultaneously praising Ange Postecoglou.
The former Celtic player wrote that one of the most pleasing aspects from the Glasgow Derby game is the way Ange Postecoglou and Giovanni van Bronkhorst conducted themselves after the final whistle.
Nicholas noted the respectfulness of the touch line interaction and believes it’s a welcome change from the ‘smugness’ and ‘anger’ from Neil Lennon after these fixtures.
The biggest compliment of all was comparing Ange’s demeanour with a Jock Stein or a Tommy Burns. Two men who have profound respect and saint status within the Celtic support for their commitment to our club.
“What I did appreciate at the end of the Celtic v Rangers match was two coaches who showed each other great respect by shaking hands and embracing on the pitch. “ Nicholas wrote in the print edition of the Daily Express.
“Ange Postecoglou looked like a proper Celtic manager, it was like a Jock Stein or Tommy Burns scenario.
“Giovanni van Bronckhorst also deserves enormous credit. Even their comments after the game, especially Ange’s, were great.
“There was none of that stuff of old with Neil Lennon’s smugness or anger.
“I loved the humility, representing clubs who are wholehearted all in.”
Celtic and The Rangers played out a 1-1 draw at Celtic park. A result that suited the home side who sit six points clear with three games remaining. The bhoys have been incredible in the SPFL this season since that famous defeat to Livingston.
Ange has sparked the most unlikeliest of revivals in his first season in charge and deserves all the credit in the world.
As for having a go at Neil Lennon, I don’t think it was necessary for Charlie to even mention the former Celtic manager. Fans do love managers who wear their heart on their sleeves and in the heat of battle you will be hard pressed to find a Celtic fan who wouldn’t forgive Neil for over exuberance.
Ange is a completely different type of character but the passion is there in bucket loads. A measured but passionate boss who loves football and has bought into Celtic in a big way.
