Neil Lennon has officially been named as the new manager of Dunfermline Athletic.
The former Celtic and Hibernian boss joins the Scottish Championship strugglers on an initial short-term deal running until the end of the season, following the recent departure of Michael Tidser.
Lennon, who boasts an impressive managerial record, is seen as the “outstanding candidate” to guide the East End Park club through a challenging period.
The 53-year-old has enjoyed significant success in his managerial career, notably with Celtic, where he won five Scottish Premiership titles, four Scottish Cups, and one League Cup.
Lennon, who was previously at Rapid Bucharest in Romania until August of 2024, managed Celtic in both caretaker and full-time capacities, overseeing 335 matches during his time with the club.
Dunfermline’s chairman and CEO, David Cook, expressed his delight at the appointment: “Firstly, I’d like to welcome Neil and Iain to KDM Group East End Park. We very quickly identified Neil as the outstanding candidate for the role. Having managed at the very highest level in the country, he will bring a huge wealth of experience to the club.”
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Cook also acknowledged the key role played by co-owner James Bord in securing Lennon’s services, adding, “This wouldn’t have been possible without James Bord’s personal involvement in the negotiations.”
Lennon is already focused on preparing the squad for next Saturday’s crucial match against Ayr United, where he will face his former captain Scott Brown in the dugout at Somerset Park.
“I’m very excited about the prospect of joining Dunfermline Athletic Football Club,” Lennon said.
“Once I spoke to James Bord he put across a very compelling proposition on his ambitions for the club. However, short term our aim is obviously to be in the Championship next season.
“Having watched the match against Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup it’s clear there’s talent in the squad, perhaps just a little low on confidence at the minute.
“What we want to do is bring an energy, confidence and an exciting brand of football. It may not happen instantly but we want to play on the front foot, excite supporters and get the players believing in what we’re doing. ”
