Lennon rules out Northern Ireland return

Neil Lennon admits his life is finally getting back to normal but he is unlikely to jeopardise that by returning for Northern…

Neil Lennon admits his life is finally getting back to normal but he is unlikely to jeopardise that by returning for Northern Ireland.

The Celtic star reluctantly announced his retirement from international football after receiving a death threat before his country`s friendly with Cyprus on August 21st for which he was made captain.

Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIlroy and Irish Football Association president Jim Boyce begrudgingly accepted his request, but both left the door open for him should he have a change of heart.

But with McIlroy set to announced his squad for his side`s opening Euro 2004 qualifier with Spain and the Ukraine on Thursday, the midfielder has all-but ruled out a dramatic about-turn.

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"Things are more or less back to normal," admitted Lennon. "In the last couple of weeks I have been feeling like my normal self and can go out again.

"At the minute I have no thoughts (on Northern Ireland). It was really difficult for weeks particular after it.

"I have my family to consider and I can`t keep putting them through that. I might be strong enough with it all, but I`m not so sure they are. It affected my life and my personality. "