Both Tom Rogic and Nir Bitton said an emotional farewell to Celtic supporters yesterday, as they were both given a standing ovation by 60,000 supporters in thanks to their contribution this season in helping to reclaim the league title, and also for their commitment to the club for the last 9 years.
It was fantastic to see them both bow out in style, as league champions after a 6-0 win in their final match in the green and white hoops.
Speaking on Clyde SSB yesterday, Hugh Keevins was asked by host Gordon Duncan, if Ange has spoken to Rogic after he came in the door, and asked him to give him one final season of service to the club and to help Celtic reclaim the league title, before moving on.
“I’m certain that is the case Gordon” Keevins stated.
“I’m sure that Tom Rogic had it in mind, he’s had an awful season, we’d one caller on last night who said the season which Celtic lost their title was arguably his least productive season in a Celtic jersey.”
“But, when Ange Postecoglou came in, they’ve had this bond and Rogic has repaid Ange Postecoglou in a big way.”
“£400,000 from the Central Coast Mariners in 2013, he has been ridiculous value for money.”
Hugh is obviously just guessing here, to say he’s ‘certain that is the case’ is a bit of a stretch, because we don’t know for sure Rogic wanted away last summer, but of course it could be the case.
If he was convinced to stay, it has been an absolute masterstroke from Ange, and has paid off big time, with Rogic having one of his best seasons in a Celtic jersey and contributing 6 goals and 10 assists this season.
It is also a great gesture from the club in my opinion, to release both Tom and Nir from their contracts a year early, so they are free to go wherever they like essentially, and receive a nice sign on bonus in the process no doubt.
This would never have happened under Lawwell, who would have demanded fees for both players, even if it was just a few hundred grand each, but it would have likely restricted who they could join.
They have both given 9 great seasons of service to the club, and both deserve to leave on their own terms. On top.
Yesterday was the perfect ending.
