Lennon near decision

Leicester chairman John Elsom is determined midfielder Neil Lennon will stay at Filbert Street - but will not hold the player…

Leicester chairman John Elsom is determined midfielder Neil Lennon will stay at Filbert Street - but will not hold the player to contract against his will.

Lennon, who has three years left on his existing deal, is a target for former Leicester boss Martin O'Neill at Celtic, although it is understood the Glasgow club's valuation is below that acceptable to Leicester. Leicester are attempting to persuade the midfielder to remain at Filbert Street and have "pushed the boat out" to offer him a new contract this week on improved financial terms, according to Elsom.

Lennon's representative, Mel Stein, revealed the Northern Ireland international would make a decision on his future by tomorrow. Celtic striker Mark Burchill had no option but to hand in a transfer request, according to his agent Blair Morgan. The young striker has slipped down the pecking order for an attacking berth in the Parkhead line-up after the arrival of record signing Chris Sutton.

Meanwhile, former Celtic winger Regi Blinker is determined to win himself a contract with Bolton after being handed a two-week trial by the first division club.