Lennon lauds Ki display

Ki: Impressing at Parkhead

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has told midfielder Ki Sung-Yong he is fast becoming a star at the club.

The South Korea international ran the show at St Mirren at the weekend, leaving the Hoops manager purring with the 21-year-old performer's all-action display.

And Lennon believes Ki can be one of the leading players in the SPL if he continues to show the form he did in Sunday's win in Paisley.

And Lennon told The Daily Record: "I have been very impressed by him.

"I thought he was wonderful at the weekend and brave in getting the ball back for us.

Blossoming

"Ki manipulates the ball brilliantly when he is under pressure and his range of passing was there for all to see. He has a real presence on the pitch.

"It maybe took him a bit of time but he has adjusted to the British style of play and there is more to come from him.

"He is only 21 and there is no reason to let talent like that go. We have to bring it on, nurture it and I can see him blossoming."

Lennon also lauded weekend scorer Gary Hooper, adding: "Sometimes coming from a smaller club can work for you or against you.

"But we knew what we were getting. His all-round game is good but we know he can score different types of goals.

"There is more to come from his play in general but at 22 he is already a top player."