Exclusive: McAvennie drops big Leigh Griffiths claim after Celtic development
Frank McAvennie is "delighted" that Leigh Griffiths is back in contention for Celtic after the striker was named on the bench for the weekend's win against Hibs.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, the Hoops legend claimed that Neil Lennon "understands more than most" what the 30-year-old has been through having had his own problems as a player.
Griffiths is yet to make an appearance this season having been sidelined with a calf strain.
He was publicly criticised by Lennon earlier this summer for reporting back for pre-season out of shape but it now appears that he has regained favour at Parkhead.
McAvennie suggested that the return of Griffiths may help Odsonne Edouard find his best form - the French striker having only scored once this month.
"I was delighted to see Griffiths on the bench because I am a big fan of Griff," he told Football Insider.
"I do not know what is going to happen now that Griffiths is back. It is a great headache for Lenny to have though.
"Edouard has not been playing well but he is a wonderful player. Him and Griffiths had such a great understanding at the back end of last season so it could be an option.
"The biggest thing for me last weekend to see Griff back. Lenny would not have put him in unless his head is right. Neil has been through his problems as a player. Managers had to look the other way with Lenny sometimes so he will understand more than most what Griff has been through.
"I am so glad to see him back and I wish him all the best. He is a fantastic asset to both Scotland and Celtic."