Celtic boss Neil Lennon admits their Champions League run has been inspired by Sir Alex Ferguson.

It was a visit from Manchester United manager and former Rangers player Sir Alex Ferguson that inspired Celtic's success in the group stages.

Lennon told the Guardian: "He gave us two hours of his time, which he didn't have to do, and I thought it was a brilliant gesture. It was in the privacy of a room at the training ground, just myself and my backroom staff, some tea and pancakes.<> "He was in great form. He has given us little tit bits along the way for the Champions League games. I'm not saying that has got us over the line, but every little bit helps.

"He was one of the only managers to write me a letter when we won the championship in May and I'll be eternally grateful to him for that, as well."