Tom Boyd speaking sense

24 hours into his new regime as Celtic boss and already expectations are high that Neil Lennon can tempt some big name stars to Parkhead in his quest to wrestle the title from SPL Champiosn Rangers.

Lennon has already got fans excited by name-checking former Hoops heroes, Robbie Keane and Craig Bellamy as the calibre of player he’d like to bring into the club.

He is also in negotiations with former England international and Arsenal star Sol Campbell, with Cardiff City’s Joe Ledley and freed Manchester City winger Martin Petron also said to be on his radar.

But former Celtic captain Tom Boyd has already heard enough from the new man to urge the thousands of disgruntled fans who stayed away from Parkhead during previous manager Tony Mowbray’s reign to give Lennon their full backing- even if he fails to deliver a “marquee signing.”

Boyd who was at Hampden promoting Glasgow’s Mile-a-thon told reporters:"I don't think that should be an issue to entice fans back," he said.

"Certain supporters do need that bit of attraction and it helps the marketing side certainly.

"But for me, if you are a supporter of the club you go through thick and thin."

Boyd played alongside Lennon and reckons his old team mate can put the fire in the belly back into Celtic that was lacking under Mowbray.

"I like the way he is speaking. He speaks as though he is trying to get the enthusiasm back, both within the team and within the fans.

"That is certainly something that has been missing I think he is trying to get that back and that will certainly help the whole club."

Lennon’s unveiling to take over the Parkhead hot seat met with raised eyebrows in some quarters after it was revealed he had only been offered a one year contract rather than a longer deal. But Boyd reckons that situation will change once the former Hoops captain starts to deliver on the park.

"I'm sure Neil will prove that he will be worthy of a further contract," he said. "I just think that's the nature of things.

"The board picked Tony Mowbray and it didn't work out and previous regimes with inexperienced managers haven't worked out too well.

"But having played with him I certainly know his attitude and I'm sure that during the campaign that (contract situation) will change. It was a great appointment and I think it was the popular choice with most of the supporters.

"There will be some who won't be happy with it but what he did towards the end of last season, he certainly deserves his shot at it.

Very well Tommy bhoy.

good man tom bhoyd. always liked him. not your typical celtic captain, he wasn't much of a shouter but a good pro and well respected by everyone.

has that bawbag Charlie Nic had anything to say for himself about Lenny?

Nicholas usually has his column on a Friday in the Star. No doubt it will be oozing with negativity as per usual.

he writes for the star? says it all really.

I was thinking of whether to renew or not, and then I thought that the best days out I have had have been whether we have won or we have lost. Thats why I will be back, hopefully jumping around Bar67 in joy for a change.

CE wrote:I was thinking of whether to renew or not, and then I thought that the best days out I have had have been whether we have won or we have lost. Thats why I will be back, hopefully jumping around Bar67 in joy for a change.

Aye that's what it's all aboot mate...experience the bad times and the good times will be a hell of a lot sweeter.

get it renewed CE, you'll kick yourself if you dont.

they were asking for you in bar 67 last night.

Aye a um getting it renewed sacks.

Haha, was out for a few pints with my old man says he wants to get a pint with you an JP down the Gallowgate.

cool, bring that Bulgarian bhoy too, always good for a laugh.

Didn't know Charlie wrote for the star! Fucking rag.

dermy21 wrote:Didn't know Charlie wrote for the star! Fucking rag.

thats his level Derm, just a bitter old rent-a-quote.

Always have time to listen to Tommy Boyd. Genuine and full of love for the club always in his approach. Was never the best player on the park but was never found wanting. His commitment is still as strong as ever. great man

boydy always has and always will talk sense. He has the club in his heart