‘Looking to improve’: Neil Lennon explains decision to release Jozo Simunovic

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Celtic boss Neil Lennon has been explaining the decision to release Jozo Simunovic, suggesting the club are looking to bring in younger and better alternatives. 

Celtic announced at the end of May that they would not be taking up the option of a one-year extension on the 25-year-old’s current contract and that he was now free to look for a new club. 

It was something of a surprise to many considering the Croatian’s regular presence in the Celtic first-team when free of injury. 

It seemed that Celtic were perhaps trimming the wage bill and that was the reason behind Simunovic’s departure.

However, as reported by the Scottish Sun, Lennon has now spoken of the decision. 

The Celtic boss admits it was a tough call but insisted it was done with the intention of bringing in improved and younger options in the centre-back position. 

“They are all tough decisions. I even go back to last year when Mika Lustig left the club. It was a difficult decision, but one we felt was the right one for the club.

“Jozo was also a great servant, but we’re looking to improve in those areas.

“That is a position we are looking at with younger ones to come in. We are looking at three or four different types of centre-half for that position.”

Celtic fans will no doubt be pleased to hear that the Bhoys could be looking to bring in centre-back alternatives, especially with continued rumours linking Kristoffer Ajer with a move away from Parkhead this summer. 

The revelation that Lennon and Celtic are also looking at ‘three or four’ different types of defender for the role will also excite fans as Celtic are clearly exploring all options regarding a potential new recruit. 

With Simunovic’s injury record, Celtic will no doubt be hoping to bring in a young, talented, centre-back who can be a reliable first-team option in the long-term.