Celtic fans had almost universal sympathy for Mikael Lustig as the jigsaw pieces of his departure from Celtic emerged at lunchtime today.
Publication on an interview from Sweden suggesting that things could have been handled differently was followed by publication of a video clip showing highlights of his eight years at Celtic.
There is no doubt that Lustig’s best days are behind him but with no sign of a replacement and the significance of next season there is a decent case to be argued for the Swede being retained for another term.
It seems that there is the offer of a contract on the table but having declined an option to extend his 2017 contract by 12 months there is the significant matter of personal pride involved.
Over the last month it has seemed likely that Lustig’s Celtic days were coming to an end, he made sure that his kids were on the pitch at Hampden after the Scottish Cup Final.
Announcing his departure wouldn’t have upset the Hampden preparations, one of the club’s longest serving ‘imports’ could have said farewell with a bit of style.
Unfortunately that doesn’t seem to be the Celtic way with supporters left to interpret the meaning of social media posts although his interview with Swedish newspapers did mention ‘never say never’.
Mikael Lustig on Instagram today.
He captioned this video with a single ????
If it is goodbye, what a servant he’s been to the club. Eight incredible seasons of domestic dominance, eight incredible titles in a row. You’ll be missed by us all ??
Lustig, you’re the one ???? pic.twitter.com/REGDnjPq9D
— Celtic FC Fans & News ???? (@Celtic1888News) June 11, 2019
Thought Lennon wanted him to stay?
— John Hood (@bhoyhood67) June 11, 2019
Who knew atomic kitten could make me emotional. Farewell legend ????????????????????????????????
— ???????????????????????????????????? BE HAPPY (@DeanoBeano17) June 11, 2019
Nearly greeting watching that.
— Michael Mcmanus (@mickthetim) June 11, 2019
Age has caught up way him . Should be kept about for his experience
— steven christie (@stevec0471) June 11, 2019
We love you too PC. Lustig
— ????????????????????????????Ritchietheforky???????????????????????????? 18+ (@ritchietheforky) June 11, 2019
Great servant, lovely guy, so many great moments important goals, crucial assists and of course the police hat????
— Lothianno4 (@Lothianno4) June 11, 2019