Our New Number 18

The arrival at the City Ground of one Neil Lennon has certainly caused a stir. The frontpage on Newsnow has been completely dominated by the news, as have the tabloids.

At 35 years of age it’s fair to say the former Manchester City, Crewe, Leicester City and Celtic star is no spring chicken. But he has looked after himself and is quick to remind anyone who doubts his fitness, that it was only last season he was playing Champions League football against the likes of AC Milan.

Lennon is a holding midfielder and has a tackle best avoided. Described in many quarters as a no nonsense player, he has a hunger and a passion to win. His list of honours is impressive. He’s won the English League Cup twice and been Runner Up once. He’s won the Scottish Premier League 5 times, he’s been a Scottish Cup Winner 4 times and been Runner Up once and he’s won the Scottish League Cup twice and Runner Up once. He has also been a UEFA Cup Runner Up.

This uncompromising chap has captained Northern Ireland and made 40 appearances for his country before his retirement, scoring 2 goals. He only retired after receiving death threats prior to a game against Cyprus in 2002.

He’s certainly a tough cookie, as two Glasgow students will testify after an altercation with him. They ended up spread all over the pavement after giving him some abuse.

Whilst goalscoring has never been his forte, his passion and commitment is. 3 goals in 214 appearances for the Bhoys doesn’t set the football world alight, but a glowing reference from his former manager Martin O’Neill would. He said, ‘”He is beyond dispute one of the bravest players I`ve ever worked with.” That is what Forest have been missing for many years. Hopefully the number 18 will perform as well in Red as he did in the green and white hoops. Good luck to him.