Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton gives verdict on Neil Lennon return rumours

Chris Sutton has completely dismissed the idea of Neil Lennon returning to manage Celtic F.C. for a third spell next season.

With Celtic expected to appoint a new permanent manager this summer, Lennon’s name was raised following his impressive work at Dunfermline Athletic F.C., who have remarkably reached the Scottish Cup Final despite competing in Scotland’s second tier.

However, Sutton quickly shut down the suggestion during a discussion on The Breakdown.

The former Celtic striker, who enjoyed major success alongside Lennon during their playing days at Celtic Park, made it clear he believes the possibility is unrealistic.

Sutton bluntly stated that a third managerial return for Lennon “just isn’t going to happen” and described the suggestion as something that belongs firmly in the past.

Former Rangers F.C. striker Kris Boyd agreed with Sutton’s stance, insisting he would be “astonished” if Celtic did not appoint an entirely new manager in the summer.

Boyd acknowledged Celtic’s recent history of turning back to familiar figures, including the returns of Brendan Rodgers, Martin O’Neill, and Lennon himself in previous years.

He also referenced the club’s failed experiment under Wilfried Nancy, suggesting O’Neill’s return was simply designed to steady the club before a fresh appointment is made.

Despite the speculation, both pundits made it clear they do not believe Lennon will be considered for another spell in charge at Celtic Park.