Ryan Christie pens emotional Celtic farewell message as he explains reasons for Bournemouth switch

Ryan Christie has sent Celtic fans an emotional farewell message and explained his reasons for leaving.

The Scotland midfielder called time on six years at Celtic Park on transfer deadline day, completing a move to Bournemouth for an undisclosed fee, believed to be around £1.5million.

After arriving as a teenage prospect from Inverness CT for £500,000, Christie was sent out on loan to Aberdeen twice to gain experience before returning to Parkhead.

He then forced himself into the first team reckoning and lifted seven trophies in all while playing in green and white.

A new contract was offered to the 26-year-old, but he explained that he was keen for a new challenge and wanted to test himself in England.

Christie posted on his Instagram account: “Thank you Celtic for the last six years of my life. I will be forever grateful to have played a very small part in this club’s history. The six trophies and two trebles we won together were truly special and will always make me proud.

“Thank you to the fans for your incredible support and unconditional love. It was a privilege to play in front of you every week and the famous European nights were always incredible.

“Also thank you to the players, managers and background staff who all work so hard to make this club what it is and have helped me become the player and person I am today. I have met some amazing people during my time here and am lucky to have made friends for life.

“After eight seasons in Scotland I felt it was time for a change and a fresh challenge. I’m very excited for the new chapter that lies ahead.

“I wish everyone involved with this special club all the very best for the future.”