NEIL LENNON says that his team were more like Celtic as he took the positives from a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan in the San Siro.

Celtic raced into an early two goal lead in Italy before their familiar defensive frailties came back to haunt them, as the Serie A giants eventually won the game comfortably.

But Lennon was delighted with overall performance from his men, and hopes that it can prove a catalyst for his side to turn around their recent dismal form.

“I wanted us to get a bit of respectability back to our performance and I felt we got that,” Lennon said.

“We looked far more like ourselves and I didn’t think the scoreline did us justice.

“I think there is a lot to be positive now going forward. The players at times showed what they’re really capable of.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been involved with a team that’s gone 2-0 up in the San Siro, regardless of the circumstances.

“We created quality chances and they had to rely on their goalkeeper to keep them in the game.

“I’m sitting here disappointed as it’s another defeat and it’s a sore one to take. But I’m also very proud of the reaction and their will to put own a performance. We looked far more like a Celtic team that I know.

“The players are disappointed because they felt they were always in the game. They are really good professionals who like to win.

“We’re talking about playing AC Milan in the San Siro and we’re sitting here disappointed that we haven’t got something out of the game.

“People may say it’s another defeat and another four goals. I get that and I understand it. But the quality of opposition was top class. And the performance from our team and as individuals was a very very, very high standard.”