Neil Lennon seems set to finish his playing career in England, having confirmed yesterday he will leave Celtic after six and a half years at the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 35-year-old had been offered a year's extension to his contract but has decided to end his spell in Glasgow on a high after leading the Parkhead club to a second successive Premier League title - his fifth - as well as a Scottish Cup final and the last 16 of the Champions League.
"I have enjoyed my time at the club immensely," he said. "I have worked with two fantastic managers in Gordon Strachan and Martin O'Neill, enjoyed working with some quality players . . . I have enjoyed a good relationship with the supporters and sincerely appreciate the backing they have given me."
Lennon moved to Celtic from Leicester City in December 2000 for £5.75 million and was instrumental in O'Neill's successful time in Scotland.
Strachan, who appointed Lennon as club captain when he took charge in the summer of 2005, said: "Neil is a true competitor and has always been a good team-mate . . . I understand fully he feels the end of the season is the right time to leave the club. I would like to thank Neil, on a personal level, for being a great captain and indeed a friend through some difficult moments."
Intrigue will now surround Lennon's next move but his representative, Mark Donaghy, stressed yesterday no offers had yet been considered. It is understood, though, Lennon will knock back the prospect of a lucrative move to Major League Soccer in the US and look for a return to England before concentrating on a career in coaching.
Lennon is due to captain Celtic for the last time on May 26th when they meet Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Cup final.
West Ham's Premiership status could be on the line today when they contest Premier League charges relating to the signings of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano.
The club stand accused of breaking the rule which forbids the ownership of players by a third party and of failing to provide correct documentation.
The maximum penalty is a points deduction, which could all but confirm their relegation.
... Guardian Service
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