Neil Lennon wouldn't dismiss Hearts job as Celtic pal inists Hibs past not a factor for 'thick skinned' boss

John Hartson reckons Lennon wouldn't disregard Tynecastle opportunity due to Celtic and Hibs links

Neil Lennon WOULDN'T dismiss the Hearts job out of hand despite his history with their rivals.

That's according to John Hartson, who reckons his former Celtic teammate would be open minded about taking over at Tynecastle and that his two spells in charge at Parkhead and a successful stint across the capital at Hibs wouldn't come into it. Lennon was often public enemy no 1 in Gorgie, with one crazed fan even running o to the pitch to attack him during a stormy clash with the Celts during his first spell. He was also struck with a coin during a goalless Edinburgh derby after celebrating a disallowed goal for the hosts.

The majority of Hearts fans didn't take things to such extremes, and simply disliked him as a combative, confrontational midfielder during his playing days before his transition to the dugout, but would no doubt be less than impressed if their club was to seriously consider Lennon as a replacement for Steven Naismith. But Hartson is convinced the 53-year-old would see it as a great opportunity to get back into Scottish football with a big club following his sacking by Rapid Bucharest.

"I don't think that would bother him too much," Hartson told GO Radio. "He's quite thick skinned. I know he did really well at Hibs, he got them promoted from the Championship to the Premiership.

"Listen, I don't think the Hibs fans would like it. But at the end of the day, if Neil was to be offered the job, I don't think his excuse would be because he managed Hibs. I don't know exactly the way he would think, but I think he would see it as an opportunity to get back into the game in Scotland with a really good club. I don't think it would put him off, I'll be honest with you."

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