PETER LAWWELL has reacted to Mikael Lustig’s exit after the player himself confirmed he would not be continuing his career with Celtic.

Lustig hinted last week to the Swedish media that his contract negotiations had not been handled in the best way by the club. The defender praised the fans, coaches and players but kept very quiet when it came to the hierarchy. Even saying the club is the fans and players above all else.

“Mika has been a huge part of Celtic over so many years and I am sure all our fans, as well as thanking him, will wish him well in everything he does in the future.” Lawwell told the Celtic website.

“His appearances and trophy count at Celtic and the number of international caps he has achieved, demonstrate exactly the level of player Mika has been consistently over a long period of time.

“For Celtic he has been a real force, a highly-talented player who always fought for our cause. He has been crucial to so much of what we have achieved as a club.

“Everyone at the club sends their best wishes to both Mika and his family and we hope they enjoy a very successful future.

“As well as making a huge impression on the club over so many years since he joined, Mika leaves Celtic as a treble Treble champion, something he should always be immensely proud of.

“We thank Mika for everything.”

There was an option to pick up the players contract for another year by the club but Peter Lawwell seemed unwilling to pay the defender at the same level as his deal stipulated.

The pair entered into negotiations but it looks like there was no budging from either side.

Neil Lennon wanted to keep the defender but with the club actively looking for a new and fresh right back, Lustig would likely be a backup player with the club unwilling to pay the Swede top wages for that kind of role.

Celtic have lost a lot of defenders this summer and they really need to start replacing these players as the new season approaches.

1 COMMENT

  1. Big Mika has been great for the club.and should have been give a contract extension.he would still have been able to do a job for us as a backup right back,maybe with a bit of defensive coaching as well to help out Kennedy.

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