Lennon believes Celtic win is 'baby steps in right direction'

Neil Lennon saw his Celtic side beat Lille 3-2 to finish their Europa League campaign with a victory, and says the win is a step in the right direction after recent setbacks.

The under-pressure manager rang the changes for the game, with Celtic unable to progress in the competition, and the players coming in took their chance to impress.

Christopher Jullien, Callum McGregor and David Turnbull scored the goals for the home side and Lennon was particularly pleased with how the team reacted when Lille twice equalised.

The victory came as a shot in the arm after a spell of disappointing results, that have seen Lennon argue for more time to turn form around as many fans called for a change of manager. He believes the European win shows signs the team are improving.

“It was a great way to end the campaign,” he said. “It was a disappointing campaign.

“There is a long way to go this season but we have to use this is a catalyst to get consistency.

“It is baby steps in the right direction.”

“Overall it was a good win and we move on to Kilmarnock. I would love to win on Sunday as well and back it up.”

The manager said that he was “delighted” for Turnbull after the young midfielder scored the winner, and was pleased with several of the players who made rare starts.

“We have beaten a very good team,” he said.

“We played well, with played with vigour, attitude and work either and no lack of quality.

“Attitude and body language was good and there was good reaction when they equalised.

“We defended well when we needed to. A lot of positives to take, players coming in like Soro, Turnbull, Klimala and Henderson.”