Wilson’s regrets as he leaves Celtic
The defender is expected to join Nottingham Forest in the next few days to be re-united with his family.
Two seasons in Glasgow have created a lasting impression on the Nottingham bhoy who recovered from a patchy opening season to become Neil Lennon’s first choice central defender.
Wilson starred in Celtic’s thrilling 12 match Champions League campaign last season but faces a marathon programme in the Championship that can stretch to 49 league matches.
“I have one or two things to resolve and I’ve been in constant contact with the gaffer all week,” the defender explained after helping Celtic into the final qualifying round of the Champions League last night.
“He knows I am not looking to leave for football or financial reasons. If I am to leave it will be for family reasons which I’d rather not go into but it will be difficult to go, you just need to look at occasions like tonight.
“European football and the Champions League are massive draws and you just think back to last season but I am leaving for personal reasons and the boss understands that. The club want it resolved and I want it resolved sooner rather than later. So I expect the whole thing to be sorted out soon.
“Everybody needs to move on, even if I have to stay. But it looks like I will be leaving a great team.”
Looking back over his hoops career Wilson added: “I will take so many memories away with me if I am to leave. The group stage of the Champions League last season will live with me forever, so will the friendly against Real Madrid in America.
“People might look at me funny but the Rangers game at Ibrox when we lost 4-2 also stands out because I learned a lot about myself. There is no doubt I have learned and improved as a player here.
“This is a massive club and if I am heading back down south I am returning a better player.
“They are a great set of lads at Celtic and without a doubt they have enough quality to reach the group stage. I will be watching all the way, you can be sure of that, if I am not here.”