McLean's progression into first-team starter and his continuing development as one of the SPL's outstanding young midfielders -- the 19-year-old won the SPL Young Player of the Month award for October -- is just one of the success stories created by Lennon. Rugged young striker Jon McShane has also made the breakthrough as Lennon has shown himself willing to give youth its chance. The Buddies' gaffer's signing of Nigel Hasselbaink from Hamilton was a shrewd piece of summer business and the Dutchman's development has grown apace, while Paul McGowan's licence to roam behind the strikers has given an extra dimension. Buddies No.1 Craig Samson, a summer capture from Ayr United, earned a Scotland call-up recently for the friendly in Cyprus. At the other end of the scale, the signing of former inter- nationals Steven Thompson and Gary Teale have also been good pieces of business. Former Ranger Thommo's commitment to the cause was underlined by the way he burst a gut to regain possession before setting up Hasselbaink for the second and winning goal against the Pars. The signing from Hamilton and then instalment of Jim Goodwin as a sitting midfielder and club captain was another piece of clever management, and one that has allowed the player's passing and leadership qualities to flourish. McLean is hoping Lennon's future will be secured before Saturday's trip to Parkhead, and said: "With Celtic next up it would be great for everyone if the manager's future was sorted out before then. We feel the