Lennon - Hoops are on track

Celtic gearing up for title defence

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 30th July 2008

Lennon - Hoops are on track

Lennon: In confident mood

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Celtic coach Neil Lennon believes the SPL champions are in good shape heading into the new season.

The Hoops are looking to secure domestic glory for the fourth consecutive season, while continuing to build on their impressive progress in Europe.

With their pre-season preparations seemingly standing them in good stead, Lennon is hoping that Gordon Strachan's men can hit the ground running.

He said: "I think we've performed well in most of our pre-season matches, especially the other evening against Porto (1-0 win in Portugal).

"We decided to change the system slightly and go with a 4-5-1 formation, as sometimes that's the way you've got to play in Europe. And I thought big Georgios Samaras played really well up front on his own.

"The guys at the back have defended well and the boys in midfield have played well so it has gone pretty well.

"It's about getting the fitness levels up and the match sharpness back, but we've been pleased with how our preparations are coming along."