Former Celtic players react as Mikael Lustig retires from international duty

By Euan Davidson

July 13, 2021

16 times a trophy-winner with Celtic, Mikael Lustig has called time on his distinguished international carer.

After 94 caps, and three major tournaments with Sweden, the former Celtic right-back announced his international retirement today, on Instagram.

The ex-Celtic fan-favourite said [Instagram]:

“2008-2021, 13 years in yellow and blue. 13 years of friendship and companionship. After 13 years of passion and pride it’s time for me to retire from the national team.

“I told myself I could die happy after my first international game, to be part of this for so many years is something that I could never have dreamt of. To my family and closest friends: I’m so grateful that you have been with me and supported me throughout this journey.

“The national team has given me so many unforgettable memories and I’m so grateful that I’ve been a part of it. But most of all, I’ve had the chance to play and spend time with so many amazing people. To all the staff and players, thanks for everything! I love you.”

Former Celtic players pay tribute as Mikael Lustig calls time on Sweden career

It’s sad, but at 34, and with nearly 100 caps, Lustig has served his country with utter distinction. A mainstay of Sweden’s right-hand side, the charismatic and likeable defender is still missed by Celtic supporters. So, how a whole country will feel, we just don’t know.

But the early indications suggest that they’re as sad as we were when he left the Bhoys. Former Celts had their say on Instagram:

An interesting five-a-side team in the making there; Eboue Kouassi, Tony Watt and John Guidetti all paid tribute to their former team-mate.

Lustig has settled back in Sweden, signing for AIK last season [AIK]. He’s already played 8 times in the 2021 edition of the Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top-flight.

Additionally, he’s had his famous chant at Celtic nicked by England. Our version of ‘Whole Again’, the “classic” single by 00s chart-toppers Atomic Kitten, was adapted by England supporters for the national team boss, Gareth Southgate.

Atomic Kitten even performed the song on Peter Crouch’s Euro 2020 show for the BBC. If you fancy watching that for some reason, you can do so here. Whether it was age or this incredible snub that influenced Lustig’s decision is unclear.

READ MORE: Return of a former cult hero…?