Virgil van Dijk always gave the impression of being a little off hand at Celtic but after leaving the club he certainly appreciates the opportunity that he was given.
The defender was signed by Neil Lennon in the summer of 2013 and breezed through two seasons at Celtic.
It was a lively time for the club as Lennon handed over to Ronny Deila with the form of van Dijk the main constant through that transition.
His departure was widely expected, within a year of moving to Southampton there was speculation linking him with a move away from St Mary’s.
The summer transfer window saw van Dijk caught up in a battle between Liverpool and Southampton but as he looks back on his Celtic days the defender remembers happier times.
“They have been unbelievable,” he stated about the 63 match unbeaten run. “They have done brilliantly and I always look out for Celtic’s results.
“It is nice to be back in Scotland again as I had some great times here.
“When you play for Celtic your love for the club never goes away and they have made great strides under Brendan Rodgers.
“They made history last week and that was great to see. It shows how strong they are and hopefully they can keep going.
“They have had some good Champions League games against some top teams.
“It is hard for them but it is great to see them back in there. The club and fans all deserve to be at that stage.”
Celtic are expecting a sell on fee in excess of £5m if Southampton cash in on the defender.
