Neil Lennon was given a rousing reception by the Celtic fans at Rugby Park last night - because Brendan Rodgers made sure of it.
The Hoops manager grabbed hold of his fellow club legend before presenting him to the packed-out away end at Rugby Park last night.
The crowd gave the pair a huge roar, as Rodgers indicated to the fans to make plenty of noise for the Northern Irishman.
Lennon, of course, replaced Rodgers in 2019 when he departed for Leicester City. The duo enjoyed the emotional embrace, as they took in the scenes of joy among the Celtic faithful.
It followed on from Celtic thumping fourth-placed Kilmarnock 5-0 in Ayrshire. Adam Idah, Daizen Maeda, James Forrest and a double by Matt O'Riley sealed the deal, and ultimately a 54th Scottish Premiership title for the Hoops.
It marks Rodgers' first trophy since his return to the club last summer, and it now means Celtic have won the crown three years on the bounce.
Rodgers told Sky: "There's been so much to manage. Not coaching-wise, that's never a problem. But tedious stuff, a couple of words that blow up. But it's been a big learning season.
"I didn't forget, I know what it's like (in Scotland). That's why I came back! It's been an amazing season. The players have delivered when the pressure has been on."
Meanwhile, Killie manager Derek McInnes revealed that referee Don Robertson apologised to him at half-time in the cinch Premiership game at Rugby Park this evening for giving Celtic “a helping hand”.
“It was the toughest 90 mins we’ve had to endure,” he said. “That was partly us, but congratulations to Celtic. I thought they’d have beaten any team in the league tonight. They were strong.
“We’re always professional and give the best account of ourselves, but, subconsciously for the players, when you’re playing a team much more on their game, it’s difficult. They played with intensity and didn’t let us breathe. When (Adam) Idah comes in he gives them that focal point.”
But McInnes added: “The first goal should have been pulled back and Don Robertson apologised at half-time. He said it wasn’t a foul, but he knew it was a head knock and he should have stopped the game. It’s poor from him because he’s a good official.
“They didn’t need a helping hand but they got one and they were really good with their work. There was so much wrong with what we did tonight. But a big part was what Celtic were doing.”
