Stephen Welsh has issued a heartfelt goodbye message to Celtic.
Welsh’s move to Swansea City has been confirmed, putting an end to almost 20 years on the books at his boyhood heroes.
He spent last season on loan at Motherwell, enjoying the best season of his career and doing his parent club a few favours by overcoming their title rivals.
Celtic and Welsh then mutually agreed to part ways, as a “good will gesture” from the club to the player after years of service.
Would you have given Stephen Welsh another chance at Celtic?
Stephen Welsh bids farewell to Celtic after ‘real pleasure’
Welsh wrote on Instagram: “Celtic has always been a massive part of my life.
“Being able to live your dream is something I would never take for granted.
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“18 years of ups, downs and special moments that so few have the privilege to experience. I would like to thank every staff member and player who have been part of this journey.
“The work behind the scenes from an early age until now doesn’t go unnoticed. I would also like to thank my family who, without them, none of this would’ve been possible.
“And finally, to the fans. You follow the team everywhere we go and support us through thick and thin.
“A special mention to Green Brigade and Bhoys. You’re there and you’re always there. Although sometimes things can be tough on and off the pitch you stick by the team through it all.
“It’s been a real pleasure.”
The mention of the Green Brigade and the Bhoys is particularly timely after the former spent much of the season locked out of home and away matches.
For next season, the Bhoys will be relocated into the North Curve alongside the GB, merging the stadium’s two main singing sections.
Does Celtic Park need the Green Brigade to be at its best?
The Green Brigade’s Celtic ban: timeline
The GB were banned from all Celtic matches from November until late April, with an initial three-game lockout being extended indefinitely.
As the ban drew on, many fans called for a resolution; a Celtic fan boycott against Dundee was called in solidarity with the group.
The Celtic Fans Collective organised the boycott, also demanding the resignation of Michael Nicholson.
Martin O’Neill confirmed a meeting between the club and fans ahead of a European clash with Stuttgart, but this did not result in an immediate resolution.
When the group eventually did return ahead of the run-in, many felt that the team directly benefited from their vocal presence.
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