Neil Lennon knows better than most the talent and ability of James Forrest.
Lennon was in charge of the Celtic side that lost 3-1 to Benfica earlier this season in Toronto when Forrest first appeared in a Celtic XI.
As reserve/development manager the caretaker boss has worked extensively with the 18-year-old and was delighted by Forrest's scoring debut against Motherwell today after appearing as an 81st minute substitute.
"He excites the life out of me," Lennon admitted. "I have been waiting to get him in the squad.
"He has been fantastic in the games he has played for me in the development squad. I wanted to give him his chance and I was so pleased for him
"He was out injured for a month and with the u-19s going for the league and cup double it has prevented him from getting his chance.
"He's a great kid and I have high hopes for him. I don't want to get too carried away, but he's a talent."
Forrest's goal, an impressive controlled lob at full stretch after forcing himself clear of a Motherwell defender from a Marco Fortune header, was an extra bonus on the second half performance.
After a promising opening of sharp passing and quick balls being played into the penalty box the pace dropped with Motherwell surviving quite comfortably.
Three minutes into the second half Aiden McGeady put Celtic in front with a classy and unexpected lob from 16 yards out just as his options seemed to run out.
That goal gave the homeside some breathing space with Darren O'Dea heading home a McGeady cross from close range in the 77th minute to ensure that Lennon's 100% SPL record was maintained with Forrest scoring after just six minutes on the park.
During his brief spell on the park he was able to showcase his impressive control and drive.
With the ability to play comfortably on either flank and an obvious eye for goal he looks certain to be pushing for a first team place next season.
Robbie Keane made it a hat-trick of Irish scorers and moved to the top of the Celtic scoring charts with an injury time goal that bore all of hallmarks of a time served marksman.
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