THOUSANDS have signed a petition calling for Scottish football chiefs to investigate abuse of Hibs manager Neil Lennon.

It comes as the former Celtic manager came under strong fire from Rangers fans over his goal celebration at Ibrox.

Police Scotland have confirmed that Lennon will not face police action following Saturday's win over Rangers at Ibrox.

The Northern Irishman was criticised by some Rangers fans for "inflammatory" actions after he appeared to cup his ears and make a gesture as he celebrated Simon Murray's equaliser during his side's 3-2 away win over the Glasgow club in the Ladbrokes Premiership.

Rangers fans taunted the Celtic icon with cries of ‘Neil Lennon, you’re a w******, you’re a w******’.

At least one object was thrown at Lennon, thought to be a lighter.

Threats made against his personal safety were made on a Facebook page frequented by die-hard Rangers fans.

Most posts were full of swearing and sectarian jibes that are too offensive to be shared.

Police launched a probe into "threatening comments" subsequently made against Lennon.

A 54-year-old man was arrested in connection with alleged offensive and threatening social media comments relating to Lennon.

A Police Scotland spokesman said of the postion regarding Lennon: "Officers reviewed the events at the match and talks with the procurator fiscal established that no criminality took place.

Clydebank Post:

"Therefore no further action will be taken."

The petition calls for an investigation by the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) to be opened into "sectarian and personal abuse" aimed at Lennon before and during the game.

The campaign, supported by over 6000, and started by a Hibs supporter said: "Neil Lennon should feel that he can manage his team at Ibrox without being subjected to personal, hate filled abuse, and not feel that he has to worry about being injured by objects thrown at him."

Following the match, Lennon insisted he had no concerns about his goal celebrations after Hibs levelled the match in the 20th minute.

When it was suggested Rangers assistant manager Helder Baptista had spoken to police about Lennon, he said: "I didn't make a gesture, I celebrated a goal.

"If they are unhappy about it they can come and tell me. But I shouldn't get into trouble for doing that.

"I am celebrating a goal. What way are you supposed to celebrate a goal?"