Celtic fans have flocked to social media to demand the board replace Neil Lennon with Rafa Benitez.

The Spaniard departed Chinese club Dalian earlier today and cited Covid-19 as a major reason in his decision to leave.

Meanwhile in the job Lennon's men sit 20 points adrift of Rangers at the top of the table with sections of the support, pundits and former teammates urging the Northern Irishman to call it quits.

Upon learning of Rafa's decision to leave his club, fans made their feelings known on social media and told of their hopes that Celtic would push the boat out to land the ex-Liverpool and Valencia boss.

One said: "If Celtic appointed Rafa then the board would be allowed to breathe." Another added: "Rafa come to Celtic bro." One commented: "I adore Rafa Benitez. Could he be heading for Celtic FC, now that would be something!!"

Benitez was questioned about a possible switch to the Hoops back in 2019 before he moved to China and he insisted he may be open to it in future.

He told fans in an Athletic Q&A at the time: “I was aware of some interest but we didn’t have any official approach. I was still under contract at Newcastle so we couldn’t even consider this option.”

He was also asked about it by STV and said he consulted Frank McParland - ex-Rangers recruiter - over a potential move.