Nir Bitton delighted to sign new long-term Celtic deal

The Israel international has committed his future to the club until 2023

Published 16th Dec 2019

Nir Bitton says he would not leave Celtic "for any opportunity'' after signing a new contract.

The Israel international has extended his stay until the summer of 2023.

The 28-year-old has made 21 appearances this season, mostly at centre-back, after returning from a serious knee injury earlier in the year.

Bitton said: "We negotiated for a little while and I'm just happy to sign the contract and put it behind me and commit my future to Celtic.

"Celtic is not a club that you leave for any opportunity. If you have the opportunity to stay at Celtic, you stay at Celtic.

"It's a massive club, one of the biggest in the UK and Europe, and it's a big opportunity for myself to keep winning trophies, keep winning titles, keep on top. That's my target.

"As long as you are at a club like Celtic you don't leave if you don't have something you cannot refuse.

"Celtic is something I was dreaming of all my life. When I came here in 2013, and signed for Celtic for four years, I would never think I would stay here for 10 years. It's a big achievement for myself and my family.''

Manager Neil Lennon was delighted to tie up a player who gives him versatility and reliability.

Lennon, who initially brought him to Parkhead, said: "He has been here a while, he knows the club, he is a very good player and is coming into his peak years.

"Whatever role we ask him to do, he plays the position very, very well, either midfield or centre-half. He is really reliable.

"He had a very good game on Sunday and before the hamstring injury, he was playing some very good football. His performances in Stockholm and Ibrox were exemplary.

"I am delighted and I think he is delighted too. That will settle him down and give him some peace of mind away from the club in terms of security.'