Online Threats Made Against Neil Lennon Investigated By Police

14 August 2017, 18:32 | Updated: 14 August 2017, 18:34

Police are investigating "threatening comments" made against Neil Lennon having earlier received complaints about his conduct during a football match at the weekend.

Social media posts apparently show a user claiming he will shoot the Hibernian head coach, and adding he is "serious" about the threat.

Police had earlier received complaints regarding Lennon's conduct during Hibs' victory over Rangers at Ibrox on Saturday, but the former Celtic manager has denied any wrongdoing.

A force spokeswoman said: "Police Scotland is aware of offensive and threatening comments that have been posted on social media concerning a named individual and inquiries are ongoing in connection with this.

"We can confirm that Police Scotland has received complaints regarding the conduct of Neil Lennon during the match and that inquiries are ongoing into these complaints and any other issues brought to our attention from Saturday's game."

The Northern Irishman was criticised by some Rangers fans for "inflammatory" actions after he appeared to cup his ears and make a gesture as he celebrated an early goal during his side's 3-2 away win over the Glasgow club in the Ladbrokes Premiership.

Following the match, Lennon insisted he had no concerns about his goal celebrations after Hibs levelled the match in the 20th minute.

When it was suggested Rangers assistant manager Helder Baptista had spoken to police about Lennon, he said: "I didn't make a gesture, I celebrated a goal.

"If they are unhappy about it they can come and tell me. But I shouldn't get into trouble for doing that.

"I am celebrating a goal. What way are you supposed to celebrate a goal?"