Lennon happy with O’Dea’s form

(GSM) – Celtic boss Neil Lennon hailed the character of his players and believes the return to form of Darren O’Dea has been key.

The Bhoys pulled eight points clear of Dundee United in the table after a battling 1-0 win at Hibernian, settled by Robbie Keane’s penalty and 12th goal in as many games.

Lennon revealed he was impressed by the guts and character shown by his players against Hibs than he was in the 3-1 romp against Kilmarnock last weekend.

The former captain said, “I’m more pleased today than I was last week. Without playing brilliant football, we showed a lot of character. I thought my back four and two midfielders were outstanding.”

“I felt we dominated the second-half and I would like us to create a few more chances at times. But we’re just two games into it so I have to be pleased with an away clean sheet.”

“We showed an ability to grind out a result. We didn’t start the best and had to rely on our goalkeeper but, hey, that’s what he’s there for. You need your keeper to be big in away games.”

Lennon was also quick to praise the impact of O’Dea in the heart of the defence.

“I think Darren O’Dea is in a good place at the minute,” Lennon added.

“I think he is back to where he was a couple of years ago in terms of his composure, consistency and defending and he is bringing Josh Thompson along as well.”