Lennon hails Brown for defensive work
Lennon carved out a successful playing career mostly as an engine-room spoiler and, after taking over from Tony Mowbray just under a fortnight ago, he player asked for a more determined approach from his players.
Brown is the man who has come to the fore. He scored his first Hoops goal in a year in the 3-1 home win over Kilmarnock last week, but Lennon was as pleased with his defensive contribution as Celtic were forced to grind out a 1-0 win at Hibernian on Sunday.
"Brown took another big step," he said. "He drove the game for me. He won the ball back when he needed to, battled well and did all the dirty bits and pieces that some people don't see, but I do. I did it for 20 years.
"The kid's got a Rolls Royce of an engine. He can get in the box and get the ball back for me. It's now about keeping him ticking over."
The bandwagon to give Lennon the job on a permanent basis shifted up a gear following the win in Leith which took Celtic back to within ten points of Rangers at the top of the SPL table.
The travelling support at Easter Road gave Lennon a rousing cheer at the end of the game when he went over to applaud them.
However, with a Scottish Cup semi-final against First Division side Ross County to come next Saturday, the former Celtic reserve team boss says he still has it all to prove.
"The fans always take to me but, listen, it all depends on results," he said. "We are not taking anything for granted.
"Against Hibs I got what I asked for from the players, which was three points. I'm delighted and I think they are pleased with themselves as well."