Lennon Back In Scotland

The message boards were on fire last night, with rumour and counter rumour about the future of Neil Lennon and in particular his future at Nottingham Forest.

Fans were claiming there had been a fall out between Lennon and Calderwood, some going as far as a training ground bust up. An official statement released by the club said. ‘Neil Lennon has returned to Scotland for family reasons. But manager Colin Calderwood is expecting the former Northern Ireland international to return to the City Ground in the near future.’

We all have to hope this is not due to a return of his publicly admitted depression. Something that he has apparently suffered with for years. If that’s the case, we all wish him well and hope he manages to beat it and get it under control again. Easier said that done I’m sure.

Lennon’s’ agent Martin Reilly told the Nottingham Evening Post. ‘Neil remains fully committed to Nottingham Forest. He was given some time away from the club to resolve personal issues, which is why he was not part of the squad last night.

‘We are planning to meet with Colin Calderwood to discuss a few minor issues, but the main factor is simply that while Neil lives in Nottingham, his girlfriend and young child are still up in Glasgow. Neil is trying to find a solution to these issues, but he has certainly not left Nottingham Forest. I am not certain whether he will be playing for them on Saturday – that is one of the things we have to discuss.’

The club said last night before the game that Lennon was sidelined due to a back strain. That much I think, is safe to say is untrue.

Whatever the reason for his return to Scotland, I for one hope he makes a speedy return to Nottingham and the side. His absence will be missed in more ways than one.