Neil Lennon has revealed the three Rangers players he admired during his time in management, but he admits he would never think twice about signing them.

The former Celtic boss has picked out Nikica Jelavić, Steven Naismith and Steven Davis as three opposition stars that have impressed him over the years.

Speaking to Football Betting, he said: "I regret not signing Ivan Toney before he went to Brentford. I was really interested in him. We were close to getting him and he's gone on to do brilliant things. 

"I definitely didn't want to sign anyone from the blue side of Glasgow! They had some good players like Jelavic, Steven Naismith and Steven Davis - they were players that I begrudgingly admired."

Lennon also previewed tomorrow's League Cup final between Rangers and Celtic as he gave an insight into the pressures of the fixture.

He said: "It's really intense, even the build up. The best thing about it is when the game starts and you can kind of get lost in the game.

"Celtic will probably go in as favourites but you can't call it. For me it can go either way.

"I think the first goal in these games is always really important. Celtic are in great form, they've been perfect since the draw at Ibrox. 

"It will be about which team adapts best to the atmosphere and the conditions. In terms of the league, they are nine clear with a huge goal difference.

"Psychologically if Celtic win it will totally deflate Rangers. But if Rangers win it will give them a bit lift until the end of the season.

"I think Celtic will win 2-1 or 3-1 - I think both teams will score.

"But they're playing so well, they can score from so many areas. I really like the mentality of this team and they are so fluid."