BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
Falkirk new boy Lewis Kidd insists he is relishing a title battle with his former Celtic boss Neil Lennon.
Kidd, 21, emerged through the youth ranks at Parkhead during the Northern Irishman’s reign in Glasgow and, despite failing to make a senior breakthrough with the Hoops, has fond memories of working with the fiery coach.
He is acutely aware of the fighting spirit and winning mentality Lennon will bring to Easter Road – but is ready to match his old gaffer all the way in the race for the Championship crown.
Kidd, who joined the Bairns from Queen of the South, said: “Neil was the manager at Celtic when I was there so I’m well aware of what to expect from his Hibs side.
“He will have them riled up, determined and ready to go at the start of the season.
“That is something they were criticised for last season – people saying they had a lot of good players but when it come down to it they didn’t have the drive and determination to succeed in the league.
“Whereas, he got 100 per cent out of his players at Celtic every single day in training and his achievements in the Champions League were proof of that. He always has his teams aggressive and determined.
“Hibs will be tough opponents next season – there will be a lot of tough games in this league – but we are relishing the prospect and ready for a really good battle next season.”
Despite the challenge of Dundee United, Hibs and revitalised St Mirren and Dunfermline sides, Kidd is adamant Falkirk must target the title – and revealed Peter Houston’s determination to do so sold him on the switch.
Kidd added: “When I met the manager he told me his plans and aspirations for the future and I was really impressed. The gaffer told me that we were going to give it a really good go to get promotion and there is a real belief that we can do it.”
