Neil Lennon has heaped praise on "outstanding" Jonny Hayes after the Irishman put in a man of the match performance against Motherwell yesterday.

Hayes may not be Lennon's first-choice at left-back or further forward on the wing, but Mr. Dependable can always be called upon by his manager to do his bit for the side.

Eyebrows were raised in midweek when Hayes was picked to start against Lazio ahead of natural left-back Greg Taylor.

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But he showed why Lennon has such faith in him with a solid showing in Rome.

Another assured performance against The Steel Men yesterday was comforting for Lennon.

And he hailed the 32-year-old for playing well in a comfortable 2-0 win at Parkhead.

"Jonny deserves everything he gets," Lennon told Celtic TV after the game.

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"His work rate, watch him in training every day, he knows his role within the parameters of the squad.

"We can play him left-back, left-wing. That's two outstanding performances he's put in the last few days.

"He can be absolutely delighted with his contribution, as they all can.

"I said to every one of them since Livingston, this round of games we've had between the break has been absolutely sensational football."