NEIL Lennon was delighted, but not surprised to see Odsonne Edouard picking up the Premiership Player of the Month Award for January.

The French striker has been in superb form throughout the season, with 24 goals to his name so far, including seven in 2020. And in January he fired in three goals – one against Kilmarnock and then a double in the home win over Ross County.

That form has continued in February, with doubles against Hamilton Accies and Motherwell, and his manager is fulsome in his praise of the 22-year-old striker.

“Odsonne’s super talented and he’s right up there,” said the Celtic boss. “At 22, he’s got it all in front of him and I hope he just keeps getting better and better with us.

“The award is well-deserved, and he’s been brilliant. So I hope that gives him another confidence boost, if you want to call it that. We gave him a break at the weekend and hopefully he’ll be in good form going into tonight’s game.

“He’s quite laid back in general. He’s quiet and reserved, but he does his talking through his football. The players love him, the coaches love him, and the fans love him so he’s in a very good place. He’s happy here and he’s enjoying what he’s doing, and I think he’s having his best season here so far, for sure.”

The Celtic manager also praised Edouard’s fellow countryman, Olivier Ntcham, who marked his 24th birthday on Sunday with the opening goal in the 3-0 Scottish Cup win over Clyde. And he’s also pleased to be getting some of the injured players back into the squad.

“I think Olivier’s in great form at the minute and he’s playing really well,” said the Irishman. “His goal at the weekend was fantastic and he complements Scott Brown and Callum McGregor very well.

“Mo Elyounoussi was in great form before he got injured and he’s a very good player. He’s very smart and a very intelligent footballer so we’re really pleased with what he showed. It’s great to have him back. He’s been out for a long time and it just adds to the squad.”

With Hatem Elhamed and Nir Bitton back training, the Hoops boss also confirmed that Jeremie Frimpong has just about finished his rehab and could return to training on Thursday with the rest of the squad.

Neil Lennon: Odsonne deserves Player of the Month prize