NEIL Lennon will help Celtic choose his successor after announcing he is moving on to a "new challenge".

The 42-year-old former Celtic captain stepped down after leading the club to three Scottish Premiership titles during his four-year spell in charge.

Speculation is mounting over who will replace him, with Celtic legend Henrik Larsson a firm favourite with fans and bookies.

Lennon said he would help chief executive Peter Lawwell with the decision.

The Northern Irishman said: "Serving the club was always a privilege. I have always given my best and aimed to do all I can to ensure success for Celtic.

"I will now assist the club in appointing my successor."

Lennon replaced Tony Mowbray in March 2010, and after a bumpy start, Celtic went on to scoop three League wins in a row.

There was also success in Europe as the club stormed to the knock-out stages of the Champions League last year - a run that included a famous Parkhead win over Barcelona.

But the former Leicester City midfielder is now expected to return to England, although his agent has said he has not decided on his next step.

Lennon insisted said he had enjoyed his time in Glasgow.

He said: "I have supported Celtic all my life and the club will always be part of me."

"It was an absolute honour to play for this great club, to captain the team and of course to become Celtic manager, a position which I cherished. However, I feel the time is now right to move on."

Lennon's former bosses heaped praise on him.

Chief executive Lawwell said: "When we appointed Neil as manager we did so knowing exactly what the club meant to him and knowing that he would give all he had to the job.

"He has delivered great success to our supporters domestically and has brought us back to the table in European football."

Celtic Chairman Ian Bankier added: "Ultimately, Neil brought Celtic back to the top of Scottish football."

rachel.loxton@ eveningtimes.co.uk