Griffiths praised for getting himself in ‘great condition’

Celtic boss Neil Lennon says striker has reacted well to criticism of his weight since returning for pre-season.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has praised the reaction of Leigh Griffiths to his fitness ultimatum.

The Scotland striker was left out of Celtic’s pre-season tour to France amid concerns over his fitness.

But he is set to feature in Monday’s pre-season fixture against Hibernian.

“I gave him a bit of criticism while I was away, (but) I have nothing but praise for him today because he has got himself in great condition,” said Lennon.

“He probably needs a bit of time in terms of his football but in terms of what I have asked him to do and in terms of his conditioning, I am very, very happy with the condition he is in, so he will get some game time tomorrow (Monday).”

Griffiths stayed behind while Celtic played three games in France after reporting for pre-season training out of shape.

He was left back in Scotland to take part in a personalised programme with coaches at the club’s Lennoxtown training base.

The Scottish champions begin the defence of their title – and bid for a historic tenth league trophy in a row – against Hamilton at Celtic Park next Sunday.

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