Celtic manager Neil Lennon has suggested that Nir Bitton deserves to be handed a new contract.

Having being sidelined for almost a year with a serious knee injury, Bitton has emerged as a first-team regular since Lennon was brought in as the permanent replacement for Brendan Rodgers.

While the Israel international currently has just a year left on his deal, Lennon has acknowledged that the 27-year-old should be handed fresh terms at the Glasgow outfit.

The Northern Irishman is quoted by the Daily Record as saying: "I was delighted with the way he was playing, he's been outstanding whether he has played in midfield or at centre-half.

"Sometimes he can be a bit too composed, But from what I've seen of him lately, he's been absolutely superb. There's a maturity about him as well that has pleased me.

"Obviously we know about his contract situation and that's something we'll be looking to change as we go along, too. Hopefully we can get it sorted soon."

Bitton has already made 13 appearances in all competitions this season.