NEIL Lennon has been welcomed by Bolton Wanderers fans.

Lennon, who quit as manager of Celtic in May, replaces Dougie Freedman, who parted company with the club 10 days ago.

Wanderers held talks with the 43-year-old former Northern Ireland international over the weekend and he signed a rolling one-year contract yesterday.

His appointment has been widely welcomed by some of Wanderers’ most high-profile fans.

Comedian Stu Francis said he was “feeling positive” about Lennon’s arrival.

He said: “If Lennon brings anything like the success he has had with Celtic, I would be very happy.

“Celtic weren’t in brilliant shape when he started there and they went on to do well.

Fellow funnyman, Paddy McGuinness, added on Twitter: “I didn't see that one coming. Neil Lennon may just be the bloke to give some of our mob a kick up the a***, we'll see.”

Former mayor and Whites’ fan of 50 years, Councillor John Walsh, said: “Clearly he has a good track record and has all the credentials.

“It’s vital Lennon and the team hit the ground running and start to bring the club success. First at championship level and then aspire to the Premiership at the earliest possible point.

“He has to get on with the job of bringing the team some fortune. The one and only test that will give fans the confidence in his management is success on the pitch.”

Lennon was one of several big-name managers Wanderers spoke to about filling the role, including Chris Hughton, Steve Clarke, Malky Mackay and Tony Mowbray.

Lennon won three league titles and two Scottish Cups in his three years as Celtic boss and played for Crewe Alexandra, Leicester City and Celtic during a long playing career.