The Celtic boss had not spoken at a pre- or post-match press conference since before the controversial Scottish Cup fifth-round replay against Rangers at Parkhead on March 2, which ended with him and Ibrox assistant manager Ally McCoist having to be separated following the 1-0 home win.

Lennon was effectively handed an additional one-match touchline ban by the Scottish Football Association to go with the four-match ban imposed for being sent to the stand at Tynecastle earlier in the season.

The Northern Irishman returned in front of the cameras, microphones and tape machines ahead of tomorrow's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park, where he will be back in the dugout.

"I had a five-game ban which meant I couldn't do my job properly and there was a lot of adverse publicity which was taking the shine away from the team and their performances and focus," Lennon said.

"So I just decided to have a break. I feel fine.

"I'm glad the ban is over.

"I'm back doing what I want to do and it encompasses all aspects of the job again.

"I hope there is a positive reaction from the players but they have played quite well in the period I have been out.

"It hasn't affected them at all.

"We have a big game tomorrow night and we are looking forward to it."