Easter Road boss Lennon glad to return to ‘traditional’ venue
NEIL LENNON admits he is relishing the prospect o a Tynecastle return as his Hibernian team continue their defence of the Scottish Cup.
The Northern Irishman enjoyed some memorable victories at the Gorgie ground as player and manager of Celtic, but wa also attacked by a Hearts supporter during a league match in 2011.
Despite such vastly contrasting experiences, the Hibs boss professes a affection for a venue that is undergoing a facelift with the construction of a new main stand.
‘I like Tynecastle as a stadium,’ he said. ‘I like
the atmosphere it generates and I’ve had some great days there. I do like the traditional stadiums.
‘I think some of the newer ones lack a bit of soul. A few I’ve been to in England were very corporate and sanitised.
‘There’s still a rawness about a lot of the stadiums in Scotland which generates a better atmosphere.
‘I’m looking forward to my first Edinburgh derby. I know the importance of the game. I’m not going to say it’s just another game because it’s not. We are the cup holders, but for me Hearts are the clear favourites.’
Today will also mark the first Edinburgh derby experience for Hearts new head coach Ian Cathro. After a sticky start, Lennon believes the 30-year-old is getting to grips with the job.
‘I met him briefly at a managers’ meeting,’ he continued. ‘I didn’t realise how young he was.
‘But I think he’s accepted how big the job is. He understands it. I find him a very affable and laidback character and he’s started to find the right balance with his team.’