Simunovic Makes Very Honest Parkhead Exit Claim

It came out of the blue because many believed Jozo Simunovic was locked in for another year but in reality his Celtic contract was up and the club had a year extension clause which they chose not to invoke.

The Croatian was told he would be leaving the club and his five-years came to an abrupt end.

With football shutdown prematurely for the season, Jozo didn’t even get a send off from the Celtic supporters.

Injury was a big part of the centre-back’s stay but he had some top highlights and played his part in the clubs success over the piece.

Speaking to SunSport at the weekend, the former Celtic defender came across as someone who was caught could by the news himself and alluded to the club letting him go because of the current financial climate the club finds itself in due to the pandemic.

“It’s a bit weird as I was at Celtic for five years and was a good part of the success. My wish was to stay for one more year minimum, as we have a good chance to do something historic.

“To win ten in a row would be a great achievement and I’d remember it for the rest of my life. Was I surprised to leave? I need to look at the whole situation in football right now and everything isn’t great with the pandemic.

“It was the club’s decision and I need to accept it. They are looking at everything as a business. What can I do? Of course I can say I am angry and sad that I am not at Celtic for next season but I cannot change that. It’s the club’s decision and I need to respect it.

“It won’t spoil the way I look back at my Celtic career. I am still very happy and proud. I have been a big, big part of Celtic and the success there for the last five years.

“I also think of the boys who left last summer and the summer before. We have all played a big part in Celtic’s run to nine in a row and that will never change.

“I cannot look back with bitterness because I had the chance to have five years at a great club. I loved every game I played for Celtic and I need to thank my team-mates, my coaches and especially the fans for their support.”

It’s good to see Jozo looking at the positives of his Celtic run. The defender has been around for so long, many forget he’s only 25 and still has a lot of his career left.

We wish the defender all the best for the future. Sending Kenny Miller into orbit during his time at the club will be many peoples stand out moments.