Hatem Elhamed has hailed Celtic's supporters as he closes in on a return to Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

The defender has been granted permission by the Hoops to return home due to him feeling unsettled in Scotland.

Celtic boss Neil lennon has confirmed that Elhamed's deal has been cut short and he will now return to Israel to play his football.

Elhamed's agent Dudu Dahan released a statement on behalf of the player. It read: "To all Celtic fans, thank you for the support, understanding and love. I will be grateful forever for the privilege of playing for you. Celtic will stay in my heart forever and ever.”

We told last night how Elhamed was reunited with his son ahead of a permanent move back home.

He touched down in Israel alongside agent Dahan yesterday evening. Immediately he was rushed by his little boy as he left the airport, and Dahan - who posted a heartwarming clip - said: "Hatem just landed in [Israel] #noplacelikehome".