Lennon’s double double boost
Both men have had injury interrupted season’s but played a big part in Celtic’s title party win over St Johnstone.
Neil Lennon is unstinting in his praise for the duo and would love to have them both in action against Hibs at Hampden.
Forrest excelled in an advanced midfield role behind Gary Hooper and Anthony Stokes while Brown combined perfectly with Joe Ledley to dominate the midfield.
With Beram Kayal and Victor Wanyama suspended for the cup final Lennon is delighted to have two key players back in contention to face Hibs.
“Scott looked great,” Lennon admitted. “He’s a dynamic athlete but his technical play has got a lot better in the last few years.
“We saw that out there and the strength of his personality. What Scott brings to the team is important and you miss that a lot when he is not here.
“James is a fantastic player and gives us an extra dimension – he can play anywhere across the pitch and play it so well.
“He gets away from players and his close control under pressure is fantastic. It was an exceptional performance.”
Lennon will assess both players in training this week to see if there is any reaction to their performances against St Johnstone.
After taking some criticism for giving players time off during the course of the season yesterday’s display justified that approach.
Next Sunday Celtic complete their cup final build-up with a difficult trip to Tannadice to face Jackie McNamara’s Dundee United.