COMEBACK Bhoy Christopher Jullien sent an emotional message to the Celtic support via social media after his 16-minute cameo appearance in the 4-0 Scottish Cup win over Raith Rovers last night.
The towering French centre-back was introduced to the action with the Hoops three goals ahead against their second-tier opposition and heading for this evening’s Scottish Cup quarter-final draw.
Jullien, bought by ex-boss Neil Lennon for £7million from Ligue 1 outfit Toulouse in the summer of 2019, had not been seen in a Celtic shirt for almost FOURTEEN months.
The defender was involved in a sickening collision with a goalpost as he cleared a Marc McNulty shot off the line with his team winning 2-0 against Dundee United in the east end of Glasgow on December 30 2020.
Jullien had to be stretchered off with a damaged knee as the Hoops went on to win 3-0, but his season ended as soon as he clashed into the upright.
Following recuperation after surgery, the back-four operator has stuck to his task and was given a standing ovation by the fans when he replaced Cameron Carter-Vickers in his comeback in the 74th minute.
Jullien wrote on Twitter: “409 days, since the last time i was subbed in Paradise…
HERE OUI GO…Christopher Jullien prepares to come on as a substitute against Raith Rovers.
“It’s been a very challenging time in my life. I thought about all the people that helped me through this journey, specially my family and friends.
“Thankful to be part of such a club and feeling all the love from the best supporters.
“Now let’s go!”
The encouraging words from Jullien will be heartwarming for the Hoops supporters with the 28-year-old powerhouse now ready to fight for his place in the heart of the rearguard alongside Carter-Vickers, Carl Starfelt and Stephen Welsh.
Welcome back, Christopher!
HOOPS TO THE FOUR AS JULLIEN RETURNS