Lennon’s hint could be a ‘wake-up call’

Hibs: Easter Road legend surprised boss is considering his position

Pat Stanton believes Neil Lennon’s astonishing suggestion that he could quit Hibernian this summer will be a wake-up call to his players after a meek surrender against Hearts.

However, the Easter Road icon is praying that, in the cold light of day, Lennon sees his future in Leith.

Stanton, 73, empathised with the Northern Irishman’s anger in the aftermath of Wednesday’s 2-1 defeat at Tynecastle, insisting the Hibees did not show the stomach for a fight in Gorgie.

Branding his players “unprofessional” and “amateur”, Lennon’s criticism went to another level when he stunned Hibs supporters by confirming that he would “consider his position” in the coming weeks, despite being contracted to the club until 2020.

Lennon said: “We’ll go and try to win the game on Sunday (against Rangers), but it’s not good enough and I’ll need to consider my position. I’ve got things to think about, in terms of what my personal aims and ambitions are and my personal reasons.”

While taken aback by the threat, Stanton understands Lennon’s frustration and also reckons the former Celtic boss is aiming to spark a reaction.

“One thing that is for sure, Neil Lennon is not a silly man,” said Stanton.

He is perhaps saying it... togivea wake-up call to a few of the players. PAT STANTON

“He is perhaps saying it... to give a wake-up call to a few of the players,” he added.

“Too many Hibs players were on the periphery and didn’t get involved.”

Lennon confirmed Dylan McGeouch would be leaving the club this summer, while transfer speculation continues to surround John McGinn. Loan stars Jamie Maclaren, Scott Allan and Florian Kamberi will also be notable absentees unless Hibs splash out for permanent deals.

There will be a board meeting next week and, having stated that “surgery” will be required, the level of backing Lennon is afforded could play a major part in his decision.

Hibs’ Tynecastle torment was a rare blip in an otherwise superb campaign, given this is the club’s first top-flight season since 2013-14.

Barring a margin of victory of at least six goals on Sunday against Rangers they will finish in fourth-place and, should Celtic win the Scottish Cup, qualify for the Europa League.

“It’s a terrific change in attitude that people are thinking ‘we should be getting a result at Tynecastle’ or ‘we should be finishing second’,” added Stanton.

“You don’t need to go back too far to see Hibs getting beat by teams we should never be losing to and battling relegation.

“If you take a step back from what happened on Wednesday, disappointing as it was, and look back on what has been achieved, they have done really well.”

However, he added: “The players have got to show a reaction against Rangers on Sunday.

“They will have had a wee bit of a lift by recent events, Steven Gerrard being appointed and a couple of wins, and will bring a big support through.”

Picture: SNS. Neil Lennon gave Hibs players and fans much to ponder after the defeat by Hearts.