Neil Lennon is one of four candidates named on the shortlist for the Manager of the Year title.

The Celtic boss is joined by Stuart McCall of Motherwell, Terry Butcher of Inverness Caledonian Thistle, and

Allan Johnston, who took Queen of the South to the SFL2 title.

They have been chosen by the 42 managers from across the four Scottish leagues, as well as national team boss Gordon Strachan, who voted for the manager they think has had the best season in 2012/2013.

After the controversy of the players' shortlist, when Lennon and his players expressed anger at the absence of any Celtic figures in the senior category, perhaps the only surprise is the omission of Ross County manager Derek Adams, who has led his Dingwall team to the higher reaches of the SPL.

PFA Scotland chief executive Fraser Wishart said: “Having counted the votes these are the top four as far as the current managers across the SPL and SFL are concerned. Each manager was asked to vote for the best across all divisions.

“This was the closest-run contest we have ever had. It speaks volumes about the quality of managers we have in our game in Scotland and in fact, there are a few more managers who I am sure could also lay claim to the title.

“All four nominees have had outstanding seasons and thoroughly deserve the accolade of being voted the best by their peers.”

All of the awards, sponsored by Cheque Centre, will be announced at a star-studded dinner in Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel on Sunday May 5.