NEIL Lennon is looking forward to a return trip to Hampden next month after his Celtic side booked their place in the Betfred Cup final what he described as a ‘breathtaking’ performance to beat 5-2 Hibernian in this evening’s semi-final.

Doubles from Scott Brown and Mohamed Elyounoussi and one from Callum McGregor delivered the win for the cup holders, who are now looking to win the trophy for the fourth year in a row. And they will only have to wait until Sunday to find out their opponents in the December 8 final, with Hearts and Rangers battling it out in the other semi-final.

Speaking after the game today (Saturday), Neil Lennon praised his players for a stunning display

We were absolutely scintillating today,” the manager said. “I can’t speak highly enough of the level of performance and mentality of the team.

“We were breathtaking from start to finish with our attacking intent and the chances we created. We scored five goals, which is fantastic for a semi-final, and we could have had more. We hit the post twice, their goalkeeper’s made some great saves, and we’ve shaved things across the box.

“It could have been a tough game for us but the players went about their business today and made it very comfortable.”

Over and above the fact that the 5-2 win ensured another League Cup final to look forward to, Celtic have now won a remarkable 30 domestic cup-ties in a row, with only one of those games going to extra-time.

And the Hoops boss believes the run is testament to the character of the players in his squad, with the likes of Scott Brown, Callum McGregor and James Forrest leading by example.

“I don’t know where it ranks in British football in terms of records, but it’s amazing, because anything can happen on any given day,” he said. “You can have a bad day, and I’ve had them as a player and as a manager, but Brendan put this mentality in place and we’re trying to carry it on.

“The players just don’t want to give it up, everyone’s coming for them but they’ll face them toe-to-toe and keep going. People want to see this run end but their pride won’t let that happen. One day it will go but they are relentless in their pursuit of trophies. And not only that, but the style of football they’re playing just now is fantastic.

“Those three players (Brown, McGregor and Forrest) are pretty special and they’re playing some special football at the minute, allied to what’s around them as well. Their consistency and willingness not to let things slide is a great barometer for the rest of them.”

Manager: We were breathtaking in five-star semi-final win