Neil Lennon has enjoyed the break from the media intrusion that come with being a manager in the top flight these days. He broke off relations with the media at the same time as he served his five-game touchline suspension imposed by the SFA. Lennon had not spoken at a pre- or post-game press conference since before the controversial Scottish Cup fifth-round replay against Rangers at Parkhead on 2 March, which ended with him and Ibrox assistant manager Ally McCoist having to be separated following the 1-0 home win. Lennon was effectively handed an additional one-game touchline ban by the SFA to go with the four-game ban imposed for being sent to the stand at Tynecastle earlier in the season. The Northern Irishman returned in front of the cameras, microphones and tape machines ahead of tomorrow's SPL game with St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park, where he will be back in the dugout.
Lennon said: "I had a five-game ban which meant I couldn't do my job properly and there was a lot of adverse publicity which was taking the shine away from the team and their performances and focus. So I just decided to have a break. I feel fine. I'm glad the ban is over. I'm back doing what I want to do and it encompasses all aspects of the job again. I hope there is a positive reaction from the players but they have played quite well in the period I have been out. It hasn't affected them at all. We have a big game tomorrow night and we are looking forward to it."