A morning stroll was intended to keep the butterflies at bay for Neil Lennon. Some chance.
A surreal return to Easter Road and to the club he left under a cloud only a month ago.
The fear of being Celtic's manager as the streak of success in cup competitions stalled at 24 matches.
A morning stroll was intended to keep the butterflies at bay for Celtic boss Neil Lennon
Lennon had much to ponder and be worried about at the close of one of the most tumultuous weeks of his career.
So, he admitted that the overwhelming emotion when finally drawing breath last night was relief as he prepared to give both himself and his players a well deserved couple of days off.
Two old favourites did the business for him. James Forrest - with his 20th goal for club and country this season - and Scott Brown scoring in the second half of a game that only late on became a walk in the park for the cup holders.
'It was a long day,' reflected Lennon. 'My stomach was churning when I woke up. I had to go for a walk, I had to come back and get some fresh air.
'It is a quick turnaround. It was difficult leaving (Hibs) but it has worked out okay, I think. Now my whole focus is on Celtic.
'We are not getting carried away. It is only two games but you have to remember what an influence Brendan Rodgers was, not just on the players but on the club with the philosophy he brought here.
'So it's relief. Because I didn't want to come in after 24 cup games and be the one that spoils that run. Or have people pointing the finger at you.
Scott Brown scoring in the second half of a game that only late on became a walk in the park
'I'm really, really pleased we accomplished that here and I have to pitch it to John (Kennedy), Damien (Duff), Stevie Woods and the staff for helping me out the last few days.
'I do need a couple of days of myself. I don't know where I am. Glasgow or Edinburgh. I'll have a chat with Peter (Lawwell) about things, give the staff a rest as well because it's been very tumultuous for everyone.' Lennon was intent on praising players whose performances and application haven't skipped a beat since the departure of Rodgers to Leicester City.
Responsible for guiding Hibs to victory over Celtic twice last year at Easter Road, Lennon did the steering as they secured a first win at the venue for five years.
'I got everything I wanted,' said Lennon. 'That was an outstanding performance by the team. We had total control.
'The second half
