JOHN Collins has endorsed Neil Lennon's decision to make John Kennedy his assistant - and predicted the one-time Celtic defender could end up managing the Parkhead club.

Collins worked with Kennedy, whose career was cruelly ended by injury at the age of just 26 back in 2009, when he was No.2 to Ronny Deila and was impressed by his dedication and knowledge of the game.

He was pleased to see the former centre-half, who has also had roles as a scout and youth team coach with the treble Treble winners, remain involved when Brendan Rodgers replaced Deila.

The Herald:

READ MORE: John Kennedy: There was no chance I was leaving Celtic for Leicester City

The ex-Celtic midfielder felt the 35-year-old was the logical choice to assist Lennon when the Northern Irishman was confirmed as manager following the William Hill Scottish Cup final.

But he can envisage Kennedy taking charge of the Glasgow giants himself at some point in the future if his progression continues apace.

“He has done a great job," said Collins. "He is a young coach who has worked with a lot of managers now. he has picked up different ways of doing things, gaining lots of experience.

The Herald:

READ MORE: John Kennedy: Celtic's players won't have their heads turned by Brendan Rodgers' shock exit

"It’s great that he is still there because he is Celtic through and through. It’s nice that they have kept him. I could see him managing Celtic one day. It’s a different ball game when you are managing, picking teams.

“But I think that might be in the future for him and I’m sure he will be thinking about that next stage. Maybe one day. You can work through the system at a club but it happens rarely nowadays. If there is a system and a philosophy and you know it, the people within the club then why not?’