Thompson refused Lennon meeting - Celtic

Celtic have said first-team coach Alan Thompson was sacked after he refused to attend a meeting with boss Neil Lennon.

Thompson's surprise exit from Parkhead was confirmed on Monday and the former Bhoys midfielder has already taken legal advice over his dismissal. The full story on Thompson's departure is yet to emerge but Celtic have issued a statement saying he was axed after refusing to meet up with Lennon in Newcastle. "We can also confirm that a meeting was set up between Alan Thompson and Neil Lennon on Sunday (June 3) in Newcastle," it read. "However, Alan refused to meet with Neil, hence the reason for the discussion being conducted by telephone. The matter is now in the hands of lawyers and, therefore, we are unable to go into any further details." Thompson has already been linked with a coaching position at Premier League side Aston Villa, who recently appointed former Celtic midfielder Paul Lambert as their new boss.