While Celtic prepare to host Hearts on Saturday in a pivotal league clash, attention will also turn to Somerset Park where two Parkhead icons go head to head. Scott Brown’s Ayr United welcome Dunfermline Athletic, who have just appointed Neil Lennon as their new manager. It’s a fascinating subplot for Celtic fans, with the former captain squaring off against his old gaffer.
Lennon returns to Scottish football for the first time since departing Celtic in 2021, and he does so in familiar territory—facing his former midfield enforcer. The pair shared countless battles together at Celtic Park, with Lennon managing Brown during two separate spells as Celtic boss. Their relationship was forged in the intensity of being expected to win week after week with the Hoops.
Ayr United are second in the table, though well adrift of runaway leaders Falkirk. Brown’s side had looked like credible title contenders earlier in the campaign, but a dip in form has seen them fall away. Promotion through the play-offs remains a possibility, but Ayr need to rediscover consistency. A win over Lennon’s Dunfermline could provide a timely boost.
For Dunfermline, this will be Lennon’s first game in charge. He takes over a side lacking direction and sitting second from bottom. The hope in Fife is that his experience—and profile—can galvanise a club that’s struggled for momentum all season.
There’ll be no shortage of fire on the touchline. Brown, still new to the managerial game, has already shown he’s not afraid to be animated in the technical area. Lennon, never one to shy away from confrontation, will bring his trademark intensity.
It’s a clash of Celtic eras and egos—two captains turned coaches, now rivals in the dugout. Whatever happens on the pitch, Celtic fans will be watching with more than a passing interest.
