Lennon glad to be back in dugout

11 April 2011 15:00

Neil Lennon claims he felt the benefit from the self-imposed media ban which accompanied his five-match touchline suspension.

The Celtic boss had not spoken at a pre or post-match press conference since before the controversial Scottish Cup fifth-round replay against Rangers on March 2, which ended with him and Ibrox assistant manager Ally McCoist having to be separated.

"I had a five-game ban which meant I couldn't do my job properly and there was a lot of adverse publicity which was taking the shine away from the team and their performances and focus," Lennon said.

The Northern Irishman returned in front of the cameras, microphones and tape machines ahead of Tuesday's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park, where he will be back in the dugout.

He added: "I just decided to have a break. I feel fine. I'm glad the ban is over. I'm back doing what I want to do and it encompasses all aspects of the job again.

"I hope there is a positive reaction from the players but they have played quite well in the period I have been out. It hasn't affected them at all.

"We have a big game and we are looking forward to it."

Source: PA