Thursday 6 November 2014 11:58, UK
Bolton boss Neil Lennon admits he continues to be amazed by the talented Lee Chung-yong
Lennon declared his "heart skipped a beat" when he first saw the South Korean international in training upon arrival last month - and the love affair has only heightened ever since.
Lee made Bolton tick on Tuesday night as they edged the midfield battle against Cardiff in a 3-0 win at Macron Stadium.
"Lee Chung-yong is an outstanding footballer," said Lennon.
"I didn't realise how good he was but he's just getting better and better for us. That gives me a lot of encouragement moving forward."
One of the criticisms often aimed at Lee has been he is too lightweight for the rigours of second-tier football.
However, the 26-year-old, who suffered a broken leg three years ago, has displayed a tenacious side to his game recently, with an expertly-timed slide tackle leading to Wanderers' second goal in midweek.
Lennon worked with Lee's compatriots Cha Du-Ri and Ki Sung-yueng in his previous post at Celtic and reckon's Bolton's South Korean is just as good.
"I think he's over the psychological bit with the leg because it can take it out of you when you get a bad injury like that," Lennon added.
"Every game he's been here under us he's competed, whether it be aerially or on the ground.
"He glides along the pitch and technically he's a wonderful player.
"I was blessed to have worked with a couple of South Koreans at Celtic who were terrific footballers but he's right up there as well. He's really shown his class."
