TOM ROGIC says Celtic will always hold a special place in his heart after he ended an almost 10-year stint with the Parkhead club.

Celtic made the shock announcement today that both Rogic and long-term teammate Nir Bitton would be leaving the club in the summer.

First to join was Australian internationalist Rogic, who signed from Central Coast Mariners during the January window of 2013, having just turned 20-years-old a month earlier and he made his Celtic debut a month later.

That was the first of 271 games during which he netted 46 goals while picking up no fewer than six championship medals, five Scottish cups and five League Cups for a 16-medal haul.

And speaking after his exit was announced, Rogic said: “I want to sincerely thank everyone at the club and all our supporters for everything that has been given to me while I have been at Celtic. 

"It has been a phenomenal journey, with some magical moments - it has been an honour to be a part of this experience.

"It has been a privilege to play for the Celtic supporters, the best in football I have ever experienced and the great times I have been part of will stay with me forever.

“While I am so sad to leave, I feel so proud to be part of a team that has delivered the title again for our fans. 

"The club is in a great position and I know the manager will take the club on and deliver more and more success.

“Celtic will always be in my heart and part of my life and I wish the club and our fans nothing but success for the future.”