The 22-year-old Rangers striker helped his club win the title by eight points from their Old Firm rivals last term.

Lafferty believes it will be tougher this time around as he is aware of Lennon's qualities, given he too played for Northern Ireland.

Lafferty said: "I think Celtic will improve under Lenny. We will see a team with more fight and determination. They will put up a strong challenge. Neil Lennon brings that to any team.

"He is a guy that hates losing. It will be tough but hopefully we can bring a few more players in before the transfer window closes to strengthen the squad."

Lafferty cites a special reason why Rangers are desperate to retain the title - it is Walter Smith's last season as manager of the club.

But the frontman scoffed at suggestions they might feel the strain in trying to achieve that goal.

Speaking ahead of Northern Ireland's friendly in Montenegro, Lafferty said: "I know it is Walter's last season in charge but that doesn't mean we are feeling under more pressure.

"It is up to us to perform and win the title for Walter as a great send-off.

"I would not say we are favourites as Celtic have spent a lot of money and signed good players. But we have shown that over the last two seasons we are capable of beating anyone.

"The lads have worked hard and we have got a good run under our belts. We went to Australia and everyone is geared up for the league and Champions League."

Meanwhile new Oldham striker Warren Feeney is keen to get a run-out for Northern Ireland tomorrow.

He will sit out the League One club's Carling Cup tie with Scunthorpe as he attempts to rebuild his international career.

Feeney was due to rejoin Leeds last season but the move broke down and he remained a marginal figure at Cardiff.

He said: "I was gutted when the Leeds thing collapsed. I was champing at the bit to get out of Cardiff but it just didn't happen.

"Last year was a total write-off. I want to get back to what it was like a couple of seasons ago.

"Nigel Worthington has made it clear he wants players playing football. I don't want to be sitting around.

"You need to be feeling good about yourself and it is something I want to be part of."