Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew insists Parkhead interim boss Neil Lennon deserves to be handed the reins on a permanent basis this summer.

Lennon returned for his second stint in the Parkhead dugout a month ago and has helped create a 10-point gap on Rangers at the Ladbrokes Premiership summit ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm clash.

Scotland internationalist Mulgrew was emerging through the youth ranks when Lennon played for the Hoops and was then managed by the Northern Irishman.

The Herald: Neil Lennon and Charlie MulgrewNeil Lennon and Charlie Mulgrew

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And the Blackburn Rovers player believes Lennon, who was put in charge until the end of the season following Brendan Rodgers’ departure to Leicester City, should be offered a long-term deal.

He said: “My first feeling was that I was very happy for him and I was happy for Celtic, too, because in Neil Lennon they have a great man-manager. He is somebody that can really motivate the team.”

Speaking to Sky Sports, he added: "I’m sure he wants to get the treble. His first aim will be to cement the league, and then win the Scottish Cup. I’m unsure what the actual requirements are to get the job, but if you’re asking me if he deserves it – he more [than] deserves it and he is somebody that can take the club forward.”