Source: Team_Talk
Samaras understands Hibs omission
Celtic's Georgios Samaras claims Neil Lennon was acting in his best interests when he dropped him following his hat-trick against Inverness.[LNB] Samaras netted his first treble for Celtic during last Wednesday's 6-0 Co-operative Insurance Cup victory over Terry Butcher's side.[LNB]However, Shaun Maloney replaced the Greece striker in Lennon's starting line-up for the 2-1 victory against Hibernian three days later, with Samaras coming on for Gary Hooper for the last 20 minutes.[LNB]But Samaras believes Lennon is protecting him after a short summer break. The former Manchester City striker was playing pre-season matches for Celtic less than four weeks after playing in Greece's final World Cup match.[LNB]Samaras told the Celtic View: "I know they have taken extra care with me as I came in straight after the World Cup and sometimes I need a rest, and that is normal.[LNB]"It's not good if you play 90 minutes and then pick up an injury that puts you out for three or four weeks.[LNB]"I think the gaffer knows exactly what I can do and sometimes when I am not playing it's for my own good.[LNB]"And for the moment we have a good squad and he can use the rotation, and that's a good thing."[LNB]Samaras looked to be on his way out of Parkhead this summer after making only one start following the Scottish Cup defeat by Ross County.[LNB]However, Samaras has featured in all but two of Celtic's matches this season, mostly from the start, and Lennon recently spoke of offering the 25-year-old a contract extension.[LNB]Samaras said of his manager: "He knows me as a football player and what I can do on and off the pitch.[LNB]"So I don't think I need to prove to anyone what I can do."[LNB]Samaras added: "Everyone knows last year that we were not so good, but I think this year under Lenny he has tried to change the character and attitude of the team, as well as bringing some players in.[LNB]"And every day in training and every game, things are getting better and better."[LNB]
