Quote:
Celtic striker John Hartson says he is "shocked and disappointed" by the news that the SPL champions have accepted an offer for him from West Brom.
The 31-year-old had recently resolved to stay in Glasgow after sorting out aspects of his domestic situation.
But now Celtic appear to be willing to sell the Welshman.
"I had no intention or desire to leave the club this summer and I would like the fans to know that," Hartson told the Daily Record.
"I've retired from international football to give myself more time to see my kids and I was totally focused on going back to Celtic and trying to help the club reclaim the title and make a real push in the Champions League.
"I love the club so much, in fact, that I'd spoken to friends recently about staying on for another year and ending my career in Glasgow. But now this. It has knocked me for six.
"All I can do now is discuss with my agent what happens next and I'll do that in the coming days. But right now I need some time to digest what has just happened. It has come as a bombshell."
Hartson's agent Jonathan Barnett confirmed to BBC Scotland that Celtic had accepted a bid from West Brom. But he added that it was by no means certain that he would leave Celtic Park.
|
Must say for all the positive talk from Celtic and Hartson about staying on for another season i always had a feeling he would end up being sold.
Quite glad i must say too. He has been a great servant for us but he is a player that would hold us back in the coming season with his slowing the tempo of the game.
A good option i guess for when we are chasing the game with not much time left but you can't have him on the bench with the wages he is commanding.
Quite liking the way Celtic are shaping up at the minute to be honest.
Icing on the cake would be Naka and Petrov staying on and another season from Keane too.
Petrov is a real possibility now if O Neil decides to not go to the EPL this season as Petrov would be top of his list, there is no doubts about that.
Hartson On Way It Seems
He's a fat fuker who would be laughed off the pitch in the English premier. He's the kind of player who makes the SPL a laughing stock. I'll be amazed if he ends up in the prem so watch him sign for city
