Neil Lennon suggests whether Karamoko Dembele could play cup final for Celtic

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Celtic boss Neil Lennon handed Karamoko Dembele his first chance at Parkhead yesterday.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon has suggested to the Scotsman that Karamoko Dembele won’t feature in the cup final next weekend.

Celtic handed 16-year-old Dembele his first-team debut yesterday, and the youngster seriously impressed against Hearts.

Dembele made it off the substitutes’ bench at half-time, as Celtic ran out 2-1 winners over Hearts.

The academy graduate showed his confidence, as he caused the Hearts defence plenty of problems throughout the contest.

Celtic fans have been very enthused by Dembele’s performance, and there have even been suggestions that he should feature at Hampden Park next weekend.

However, when asked whether Dembele could start the cup final, Lennon said: “Karamoko is a little bit different.

“He has been training with us – but has obviously not got any first-team experience until now. I would doubt he would be in contention for a starting place next week – put it that way!”

Celtic will be looking to win their third treble in succession next weekend.

The game looks crucial to Lennon’s chances of staying on at Celtic, with the current Bhoys boss surely needing to win it to have any hope of having his contract extended.