UpdateCeltic boss Lennon slams Neymar after 1-0 loss to Barcelona
Celtic boss Lennon says Brazil star went too far to get Brown sent off in 1-0 loss
Celtic manager Neil Lennon slammed the part Brazilian superstar Neymar played in Scott Brown's sending off in his side's narrow 1-0 Champions League group H defeat by Barcelona.
Despite Barca dominating possession the Hoops were holding the Catalan giants at bay until the 59th minute when Brown saw red for appearing to direct a kick at Neymar, who started in place of the injured Lionel Messi in Glasgow, as he lay on the deck following a trip by the Celtic captain.
However, Lennon labelled the decision as soft and hit out at Neymar for his reaction following the incident, which he said changed the shape of the game.
"I didn't think the initial tackle was a severe one. It's a physical game and I don't think Neymar does himself any favours by the way he behaves at times," Lennon said.
"Neymar has a reputation in the game. Sometimes he exaggerates things a little bit.
"Having reviewed it, I don't think there was very much in it.
"There's no question it's a foul, but the reaction certainly wasn't merited. If the referee was going to book Scott for the initial foul, then the tap, if that's what you want to call it. Was it violent play? Was it dangerous play? I'm not so sure.