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Police probe 'threatening comments' made to Neil Lennon

Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon after Simon Murray's goal
Image: Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon after Simon Murray's goal

Police are probing "threatening comments" made against Neil Lennon after the Hibernian head coach's eventful return to Ibrox.

Social media posts apparently show a user claiming he would shoot Lennon, and adding he was "serious" about the threat.

Police had earlier received complaints about Lennon's conduct during Hibs' victory over Rangers on Saturday but the former Celtic manager has denied any wrongdoing.

A police spokeswoman said: "Police Scotland is aware of offensive and threatening comments that have been posted on social media concerning a named individual and enquiries are ongoing in connection with this."

Police earlier confirmed they were making enquiries following the complaints about Lennon, which centred around his goal celebrations after Simon Murray made it 1-1.

Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon celebrates Simon Murray's goal
Image: Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon celebrates Simon Murray's goal

The Northern Irishman cupped his ears and raised a fist towards Rangers fans, after being subjected to verbal abuse beforehand. Hibs went on to win 3-2 after Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack was sent off following a clash with Anthony
Stokes.

Following the Ladbrokes Premiership match, Lennon insisted he had no concerns about his celebrations after the 20th-minute goal.

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When it was suggested Rangers assistant manager Helder Baptista had spoken to police about him, Lennon said: "I didn't make a gesture, I celebrated a goal.

"If they are unhappy about it they can come and tell me. But I shouldn't get into trouble for doing that.

"I am celebrating a goal. What way are you supposed to celebrate a goal?"

Hibernian's Vykintas Slivka (second from right) celebrates his goal against Rangers
Image: Hibernian's Vykintas Slivka (second from right) celebrates his goal against Rangers

Scottish Football Association compliance officer Tony McGlennan could also look into the incident.

Lennon has a two-game suspended ban hanging over him following a touchline clash with Morton boss Jim Duffy last season. The ban would be triggered if Lennon was found guilty of misconduct before the end of 2017.

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