Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has called on the Scottish Football Association to resist the 'mass hysteria' surrounding Neil Lennon's controversial red card in the Old Firm derby. Lennon faces a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday after being sent off twice following the final whistle at Ibrox on August 20.
The Celtic captain received one red card for a foul-mouthed outburst at referee Stuart Dougal and another for barging linesman Jim Lyon. Strachan, who may attend the hearing, pleaded for leniency, urging the committee to judge the case on its merits rather than the ensuing publicity.
Lennon could face a ban of up to six games, sidelining him until November. Strachan acknowledged that Lennon crossed the line but argued that critics have overlooked the midfielder's passion for the game. He drew a comparison with Patrick Vieira, noting that principles often depend on the player involved.
Meanwhile, Strachan revealed that Celtic plan to open contract talks with defenders Didier Agathe and Stephen McManus, as well as on-loan goalkeeper Artur Boruc. Their current deals expire at the end of the season, and negotiations are expected to begin earlier than initially planned due to Boruc's impressive performances.
On the international front, Strachan expressed relief after reaching a compromise with Japan coach Zico over the use of Shunsuke Nakamura. Zico had intended to play Nakamura in all of Japan's pre-World Cup matches, but an agreement has been reached to manage the player's workload.
