NIR BITTON has thanked the Celtic fans for their support during his near 10-year stay at Parkhead.

The Hoops announced this morning that both Bitton and long-term teammate Tom Rogic would be leaving the club in the summer.

Israeli internationalist, Bitton joined in the summer of 2013 from FC Ashdod and made his debut in the San Siro against AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League in September.

That game was the first of 269, during which he scored 14 goals and he picked up eight title medals, four Scottish Cups and six League Cups taking him to a medal tally of 18.

“When I came to Celtic I never thought I would be part of such exciting times and it truly has been amazing to be part of such a great club," he said after his departure was announced.

“I have worked with some great managers and teammates and I thank them all for those times and all we achieved together.

"We have dominated the game here for so long and now this year as champions we have done it again, something us as players and supporters we should all be really proud of.

“After a season of real hard work, when many never gave us a chance, we are champions again – the whole squad, manager and our staff were determined to deliver this to our fans.

“I want to thank everyone at the club and our fans for the support I have received during my time at Celtic and I wish the club absolute success for the future.”