Neil Lennon gives Celtic pep talk to Armstrong Oko-Flex as boss finds unique way to give insight from home
Lennon #Lennon
Neil Lennon made sure he was involved during Celtic’s 1-1 draw with Hibs despite being at home in self-isolation.
Gavin Strachan was in the dug-out to take charge of the Hoops as Lennon and John Kennedy were deemed a close contact of Christopher Jullien, who tested positive following the training camp in Dubai.
They joined 13 first-team players who missed the Premiership clash as Kevin Nisbet cancelled out David Turnbull’s stunning free kick.
Fringe players were given a chance to shine as Cameron Harper lead the line in a makeshift side.
The bench was filled with youngsters and Armstrong Oko-Flex was one who made a cameo appearance.
And the rising star was given a pep talk before going on as he answered a call from Lennon via a wireless headphone.
Strachan told Sky Sports: “Yes (it was the manager speaking to him).
“He was just getting some messages to him before he came on the pitch.
“Everyone uses every bit of technology available to them. We used it, it’s good for a young player to hear the manager’s voice before he goes on the pitch.”
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It was a disastrous build-up to the game as Celtic were without 13 key players, along with Lennon, and that will remain the case until they complete their ten-day isolation.
Celtic host Livingston at the weekend and then travel to East Lothian days later for a rematch.
It’s unsure when the players and Lennon will be available from and Strachan couldn’t shine any light on the situation.
He added: “I’ll be honest, I’m not that privy to it. It’s been that much of a whirlwind in the past 24 hours, I’m not entirely sure.”