Neil Lennon has handed former Celtic youngster Alasdair Davidson a trial at Dunfermline Athletic as he continues to shape his squad for the new season.

Davidson, a teenage centre-half, departed Celtic this summer after his three-year deal at Parkhead came to an end. The 19-year-old featured ten times for Celtic B last term, turning out in both the Lowland League and UEFA Youth League.

Now looking for a fresh start, Davidson was included as a trialist in Dunfermline’s 3-1 pre-season win over Kelty Hearts on Saturday, as Lennon begins to assess his options ahead of the Championship campaign.

The former Celtic manager, who steered the Pars clear of relegation last season, is now pushing to add the ex-Hoops youngster to his squad permanently.

He said: (Dunfermline FC), “We’re hoping to [sign him] yeah.

“We’re in the discussion with his agents at the minute, so I’m hoping that won’t take too long.”

Lennon signed a two-year extension at East End Park earlier this summer and is keen to bring in hungry, young talent to bolster his squad. Davidson’s experience at a top-level academy and exposure to European youth football make him a good option.

Dunfermline are aiming for a more competitive season this time around, having finished seventh last season. Recruitment will be key, and Lennon appears to be acting quickly to secure new additions ahead of the League Cup opener against Hearts at Tynecastle on Saturday.

Davidson’s spell at Celtic may have ended quietly, but the move to Fife offers a real chance to kick-start his senior career. If terms can be agreed, he could become an early piece of Lennon’s summer rebuild.