09/05/2003

Former NI footballer attacked in Glasgow

Police in Scotland are investigating claims that Celtic footballer, and former Northern Ireland international, Neil Lennon was attacked last night because of his religion.

The 31-year-old Lurgan-born star, who is a Catholic, was attacked by three men after he stopped his car at traffic lights on Great Western Road in Glasgow at around 1am last night.

The men damaged Mr Lennon's car and, when he got out to confront them, beat him to the ground. A 21-year-old woman who was travelling with Mr Lennon at the time was also knocked to the ground. Neither required hospital treatment.

It is believed that Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has been told of the incident.

Detective Constable David McFall, who is leading the inquiry, said he could not rule out the possibility of the attack being sectarian.

(MB)

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