CELTIC have paid a massive tribute to Mikael Lustig after the Swedish international announced his departure from the Hoops, as CQN reported on Monday.
The 32-year-old defender is heading for a “new chapter” in his career at Belgian outfit Gent after almost eight years with the treble treble heroes.
A Hoops statement on Twitter said: “Everyone at CelticFC would like to thank Mika for his outstanding service to the club. We wish him and his family all the very best.
“He came as Lustig. He leaves as a Celtic Legend.”
Lustig’s contract expired at the end of an unprecedented campaign as the Parkhead side claimed a historic nine domestic honours in succession.
Joining Celtic from Rosenborg in January 2012, the right-back made 276 appearances for the club.
Lustig, in a message on Instgram, said: “It’s time for me and my family to move on.
“I had no idea how much this club and everything that comes with it would mean to me when I signed seven-and-a-half years ago.
“I wish I would’ve had the chance to get a proper goodbye. I just want to say thank you to everyone I’ve had the honour to meet and work with at Celtic, all the players and staff.
“The memories will stay with me forever. Thank you to all of you that made Glasgow feel like home for me and my family for so many years. I will never forget your support.
“Hopefully, I’ll see you all soon. I’ll definitely be back for the 10 in a row party!”
During his time at Celtic, the defender won 16 trophies, including eight league titles, four Scottish Cups and four League Cups.
It looked as though his career would continue in his homeland with Malmo and AIK Stockhom interred in the versatile back four operator.
However, it now looks as though the popular Swede will agree a three-year deal with Gent.
