Aaron Hickey has spoken out about his special links to Celtic.
In 2018 the defender left Celtic for Hearts and ended his first season playing against the hoops in the Scottish Cup Final.
With Kieran Tierney leaving for Arsenal in the summer of 2019 left-back became something of a problem position with Boli Bolingoli, Greg Taylor and Jonny Hayes all being tried in that role.
According to Craig Levein Celtic tried to sign Hickey five or six times last season but after Hearts were relegated he opted to go to Bologna.
Celtic’s struggles in that position remain with Diego Laxalt brought in on loan with the teenager keeping an eye on things from Serie A where he has featured in 11 matches in his debut season.
Speaking to The Herard, Hickey said:
Celtic came in a lot and I was excited and happy about it. I don’t know if it was the right option for me, though, because of the deal or something.
I’m a Celtic supporter and it was massive for me, but I just didn’t think it was the right time to go there. I wouldn’t ever rule it out down the line, who knows.
Hickey signed a four-year contract with Bologna despite interest from English sides as well as Celtic.
Despite being the only Scot in the Italian top flight Hickey looks unlikely to break into Steve Clarke’s international side with Andy Robertson ad Kieran Tierney jousting for his preferred position.
CLICK HERE for Hickey’s Transfermarkt profile.