Neil Lennon has worked with some outstanding talent during his managerial career with clubs including Celtic, Bolton Wanderers and Hibernian. But there is one player who stood out from the rest.
That man is Paddy McCourt. The affectionately known 'Derry Pele' who earned 18 caps for Northern Ireland and played for clubs including Celtic and Derry City.
Lennon says Paddy McCourt was an "exceptional footballer", having witnessed the now 40-year-old's talents during their time together at Celtic.
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McCourt spent five years at Celtic Park from 2008-'13, and Lennon says the Derry native's highlight reel would "take your breath away".
Speaking to BoyleSports, who offer the latest Celtic v Rangers odds, Lennon said: "There is no question over the most talented player I’ve worked with. Paddy McCourt was the most talented player I've worked with.
"He was phenomenal and did some incredible things during training and in games, if you look at his highlight reel then it will take your breath away. He is the most naturally gifted footballer I've worked with.
"He did have cardiovascular problems that wasn't his fault, it was just in his genetics. But what a talent he was, he could literally beat people in a telephone box.
"He used to do the one-on ones, defence against attack in training, and every time it was Paddy's turn you could see all the defenders backing up. He had beautiful feet and great balance and a great pass.
"He was an exceptional footballer."
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