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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Neil Lennon details why Irish talent should ditch West Ham for Celtic transfer

Neil Lennon has urged a budding Irish talent to join Celtic rather than West Ham this summer.

Cliftonville's Sean Moore has been heavily linked with the Hammers.

The 17-year-old is said to be a strong transfer target for David Moyes' men, with the Premier League club viewing Moore as one for the future.

The teen has six goals and three assists in all competitions for the Danske Bank Premiership side this campaign.

And Lennon would love to see his old side make a bid for the youngster.

He told Boyle Sports: "I think Sean Moore should come to Celtic. Celtic are renowned for developing players and I’m sure he will be familiar with the club’s history. I think he will feel more at home.

"West Ham are a good club with a great manager but at this stage in his career, Celtic is the better move for him."

Meanwhile, the Hoops hero believes there are a number of current players at Parkhead who could make the grade in the Premier League.

A lot is always made of the jump from playing in the Scottish Premiership to England's top flight, but Lennon is adamant there are a few who could take to it like a duck to water.

He said: "Celtic are full of players that could play in the Premier League, such as Reo Hatate, Callum McGregor, Alistair Johnston could all progress to England. I want to keep an eye out for Ryan Porteous who's gone to Watford, he's done very well there and he plays for Scotland.

"John McGinn, Andy Robertson and other Scottish players who made the move to the Premier League show the way the SPFL develops players. The next one to come through is difficult to say, for me.

"There's been too big of a gap between Celtic, Rangers and the rest of the league. There needs to be more development in players so there can be a dent made in the league."

Lennon also agreed with Shay Given that Celtic would need to fork out millions to replace Joe Hart. 

He added: "Joe Hart has had a great career, and has done well at Celtic. Every season, any club is trying to evolve and have options for different positions as well as competition. For example, when Jovanovic left and Johnston came in it was seamless. 

"In Joe’s case, he has another season at least. People behind the scenes will be looking for alternatives if need be. 

"However, I wouldn't argue with Given about goalkeepers. He knows a good one when he sees one."

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