Neil Lennon has named the two best players he has ever managed to date.
The former Celtic boss is currently on the look out for his next opportunity after a spell in Cyprus with Omonia Nicosia. It was a first adventure across Europe and he started in typical fashion by landing domestic silverware just months after his arrival. He then masterminded a stunning Europa League qualifying win to earn a crack at Manchester United and Real Sociedad in the tournament proper - but it was league results that ultimately let him down.
The 51-year-old has also managed at the likes of Hibs and Bolton throughout his career so far and worked with some big names. But two in particular stick out for him with one arguably now the best defender in the world having tasted ultimate success with current club Liverpoo l while the other hasn't quite went in the same direction with injuries playing a major part in disrupting his career.
READ MORE: We simulated Rangers vs Celtic to get a score prediction for Old Firm derby clash at Ibrox
Speaking to Football Odds, he said: "Virgil Van-Dijk was the best player I managed at Celtic. He’s gone on to do amazing things but that did not surprise us.
"He is a monstrous centre-half who can do everything both athletically and technically. He’s won the Premier League, the Champions League and captained his side at the World Cup and he is one of the best defenders in the world.
"Victor Wanyama was also very good, however, he has struggled with injuries throughout his career. Those two were the best I managed."
Lennon is no stranger to a Rangers and Celtic Old Firm derby and ahead of the game he previously delivered his score prediction.
He said: "I think Celtic will win 2-1. Morelos will score for Rangers with Kyogo and O’Riley scoring for Celtic.
"Celtic handle the opposition really well and the physicality of the game too. They also score goals in bunches and handle the derbies really well. Ange has an excellent record in the Old Firm as well. Going into the game on the back of a 4-0 win will also give Celtic plenty of confidence. Celtic will look to play at a high intensity, and it is up to Michael Beale to try and stop this."
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