Neil Lennon Returns to Dugout for Exciting Derby Match

Neil Lennon is set to return to the dugout for Dunfermline Athletic’s upcoming Scottish Championship match against Raith Rovers. This eagerly awaited return follows a four-match touchline ban he described as “awful.” The suspension was handed down after remarks he made regarding refereeing decisions following a loss to Ross County in October.

Impact of the Ban on Dunfermline Athletic

During Lennon’s absence, Dunfermline struggled in the league. They recorded a series of disappointing results:

• Lost 2-1 at home to Arbroath
• Lost 3-2 to Ayr United
• Drew 1-1 away to Queen’s Park
• Lost 4-3 to Queen of the South in the KDM Evolution Trophy

Throughout this difficult phase, the 54-year-old manager remained grateful for the support he received from the club and the broader football community after the recent passing of his father, Gerry. Lennon expressed his appreciation for the respectful treatment he and his family received during their time of grief.

Return to the Dugout

With the ban concluded, Lennon is eager to reconnect with his players ahead of the match against Raith Rovers. He remarked on the challenges of not being able to communicate directly with his team:

• Leaving an hour and fifteen minutes before kick-off
• Being prohibited from interacting with players during halftime
• Waiting until after the game to address his team

Lennon believes the lengthy ban may have affected the players psychologically. He noted that the absence of his presence likely contributed to their dip in performance over the last few weeks.

Performance Goals Moving Forward

Despite the efforts of assistant coaches Iain Brunskill and Kevin McDonald in his absence, Lennon admitted the team’s recent results had not been up to par. Dunfermline last celebrated a league victory over Morton on November 22. He insists that improvements are essential, saying, “We need to start improving, not only performances but results.”

As he prepares to return to his passion for managing, Lennon is relieved and ready to take immediate action to revitalize his team’s performance. The upcoming match against Raith Rovers will be pivotal as the Pars aim for an upturn in their fortunes.