Neil Lennon doubles down on Rangers ‘mentality’ spat with Philippe Clement as boss told Celtic hurdles left to clear

The Belgian has previously slapped down question marks over his side from the former Parkhead boss.

After a prior dispute with Philippe Clement, the bullish Neil Lennon has reiterated his assertions that Rangers’ approach against Celtic will determine the outcome of the title fight.

Before the match, the Belgian had his team just a point behind Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership. If the Light Blues defeat Warnock’s team by three goals, they will take the top spot for the first time under Clement. However, the Ibrox coach became enraged with Celtic icon Lennon last month when he questioned whether their opponents have the right mentality to defeat the Hoops this season.

On derby day, the said Celtic still have a “hold” over Rangers, which would be crucial in the final stretch. In reaction, Clement stated that he was happy the Irishman had poked fun at his players and that his team would go on demonstrating their mindset in the next games.

Speaking on The PLZ Football Show, Lennon also acknowledged that the impact of the Gers boss had impressed him. He didn’t waver, though, in his conviction that the Glasgow giants’ match would determine the winner.

“I agree that he has done an excellent job,” he remarked. I concur that Rangers still need improvement. Although they have been incredibly consistent, he wants to see progress in a few other aspects of the team.

“However, there is one unanswered question: they lost at Celtic Park, and I thought their performance was lacklustre. Although they were able to regain control of the game, it could have easily gone against them at that time.

“But he has done great, he has won a trophy and they topped the Europa League group and they have been really consistent in the league. Bit by bit, he has done a fantastic job up to now. Psychologically to go top it will give the players a shot in the arm, but it will be interesting to see how they react to that.”

Pressed on who will win the league he said: “Celtic. It will be close. It will probably go down to the two games and the psychological fallout of that. It’s down to the players now.