Dermot Desmond has spoken out in a statement following the news Peter Lawwell will step down this summer.

What’s clear from the statement is the majority shareholder wants everybody to know he did not force Peter out and it was not due to supporter pressure.

Desmond has a real issue with the Celtic support having strong views on men he’s appointed at the club. The stubborn nature of the Celtic supremo has saw Celtic stick this season instead of twist when things were still retrievable.

As cited by SunSport, Desmond was full of praise for the outgoing CEO and wanted him to stay.

Dermot also made the claim Peter had been sounded out by English Premier League club sides during his tenure at Celtic but stayed because of his love of the club. Omitting, with bonuses, Peter Lawwell was actually paid more than many Premier League chief execs in the end.

Peter was an astute businessmen for Celtic and played that roll very well but when it came to football decisions, the CEO had too much of a say at times and that’s where frustrations have come from. Managers being told who their assistance are, moving the goal posts on vital transfers which was a reason behind Brendan Rodgers leaving.

His domestic success with the club is there for all to see but a lack of foresight and ambition hindered us in Europe.

Here’s Dermot’s full statement:

He said: “When Peter told me he was considering retirement, I did my utmost, unsuccessfully, to dissuade him.”

“Celtic Football Club owes a major debt of gratitude to Peter Lawwell, who has made a unique and transformative contribution to our club.

“I have been privileged to work with many CEOs and Peter ranks up there with the best of them.

“Over the years, Peter was sought after by many English Premier League clubs, but his love and commitment to the club and Scotland were more important to him.

“Since 2003, under Peter’s tutelage, Celtic has achieved incomparable domestic success and the number of trophies is unsurpassed by any other Club in Europe.

“Peter’s expertise and professionalism have been recognised by UEFA where he has been an outstanding contributor, to the benefit of both Celtic and Scottish football.

“I have had a first-class relationship with Peter over the years, speaking daily and often multiple times daily.

“The Club and I will miss his wisdom, energy and unwavering devotion to Celtic FC.

“I cannot adequately express my thanks and appreciation to Peter for all he has done for Celtic FC.”

1 COMMENT

  1. True he has been good for Celtic business side but sometimes that entertwines with football side that was not the reason for Rodgers to go it was spl and get back to epl he was good for Celtic but Celtic were good for Rodgers he very good coach and he knows it if he left end of season he would be still loved by Celtic fans alright Celtic got money for him I think they would have got it that’s the only thing Rodgers done and spoilt all the great memories I know he will regret it but to vain to admit it Leicester should be thank ful epl Roger’s wouldnt look at them Rodgers will be planning his next move cause Leicester no matter how much money u have they want belong in the big and famous club name

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