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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Scott McDermott

Neil Lennon provides Celtic injury update as Hoops set for double boost ahead of crucial run

Neil Lennon says a dodgy penalty for Partick Thistle was the only dampener on a terrific night for Celtic 's comeback men.

The Hoops gaffer was pleased with their 2-1 Scottish Cup win over the Jags at Firhill – despite ref Alan Muir's poor decision to give the home side a late spot kick.

Lennon watched Leigh Griffiths return to the side and score, Tom Rogic look back to his best, as well as Jozo Simunovic, Daniel Arzani and £3.5 million new boy Patryk Klimala get minutes.

With Kristoffer Ajer and Mikey Johnston due to return from injury this week, the Celtic boss was a happy man at full-time.

He said: “I don't think the scoreline reflected our dominance in the game.

“And we're really disappointed with the penalty decision at the end.

(SNS Group)

"Jeremie Frimpong got his body across Dario Zanatta.

“There was inference that his heels were clipped but you can clearly see he just got his body in. His recovery was terrific and he didn't deserve that.

“We should have had a definite penalty in the first half when Jerry was pushed over – he hasn't dived. I don't know how that's not a penalty.

“But overall, I'm pleased because we changed the shape of the team tonight.

“There was a good intensity to our play and I'm very happy.

“We lost Nir Bitton early with an injury – he felt something and we're hoping it's a strain and not a tear.

“But Jozo came in and did a good job, looked like he'd never been out of the team.

(SNS Group)

“We got playing time for Klimala and Daniel as well so it's been a decent night.

“Daniel has had a year out with a horrendous injury so it's great to see a smile on his face.

“With Jozo, I'm a great admirer so it's great to have him back.

“And hopefully Ajer and Johnston will train on Monday.”

Lennon was also full of praise for goal hero Griffiths who opened the scoring before Callum McGregor killed the tie late on.

He said: “I'm delighted for Leigh, he played well and got his goal. He's been looking sharp so that will do him the power of good.

“He's a great player, I know what I've got with him. There's more to come but we don't score too many goals like the ones he scores.”

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