Lennon is keen to tie Bitton to new Hoops deal
Neil Lennon is confident Celtic can see off predatory Premier League interest in Nir Bitton.
The Israeli internationalist is out of contract in the summer and has been targeted by Burnley, who are keen to strengthen their squad to consolidate after a strong start to their EPL campaign.
The Hoops boss, however, also values the 28-year-old highly for his ability to fill several different defensive and midfield roles.
With the club through to the Europa League last-32 – and still in the hunt for all the domestic trophies – Lennon admits he is anxious to tie Bitton up on a new deal ahead of the opening of the winter transfer window.
“We don’t want Nir to run down his contract. We don’t want him to go,” said Lennon.
“He has been told that and he himself has made indications he would like to stay.
“Talks are ongoing at the moment, and our hope would be that we can get a positive resolution ahead of January.
“We will see how it pans out but, as I say, he is happy here and we want him to stay.”
Bitton came off the subs’ bench to help Celtic seal their stunning Europa League win against Lazio in Rome, and also featured in last Thursday night’s win over Rennes that clinched top spot in Group E.
“We are really pleased that Nir got minutes against Rennes, likewise Mikey Johnston and Leigh Griffiths, because we will need them all as we go along,” admitted Lennon.
“Getting these guys game time in a really competitive fixture, with a great atmosphere, keeps their juices flowing.
“We want them to play. They all looked good and I am delighted with that.
“We do have first-team regulars, but I don’t have a first-team set in stone.
“I don’t want anyone to think they are just bitpart players. When they come to Celtic, where the competition is good and the squad depth is good, you want them to be able to step in and have a seamless transition.
“That’s in an ideal world. But they are making a good fist of it at the moment.
“The staff do a good job of keeping everybody motivated and fit, with the guys constantly topping their levels up.”
Celtic are back in action at lunchtime today, against Ross County in Dingwall.
“The recovery from Europe, the travelling and the early kick-off mean we will have to be spot-on with our preparations,” said Lennon.
“We can’t use any excuses, though, because we want to be in all the competitions. The atmosphere is good, the team is playing really well and we are looking forward to it.”