All-action Jonny Hayes’ three-year Celtic stay has come to an end but that doesn’t mean the Irishman’s love affair with Scottish football is drawing to a close.
It started with Inverness before Aberdeen reaped the rewards and Celtic have enjoyed the winger’s endeavours over the past three seasons.
We might be dealing with a pandemic but hard-up sides will still seriously consider a player who has been a sterling servant for a host of clubs.
The 32-year-old was a vital man for Neil Lennon last season and was brilliant in the 2-1 away triumph over Lazio, while also the winner against Rangers at Ibrox.
The amiable midfielder confirmed his departure on Saturday and will likely have interest from England but has raved about life north of the border and the chance to roam the hillsides during his time off.
Record Sport looks at the clubs that could come into consideration for his services.
Dundee United
Robbie Neilson is desperate to make a splash as one of Scotland’s biggest sides returns to the Premiership after a four-year absence. The Tannadice side have some senior pros in place but adding Hayes would certainly help ahead of the new campaign.
United will likely have some early-season jitters upon their return and a tone-setter like Hayes could make all the difference.
Perhaps the current situation could kibosh any deal but this appears a logical fit.
Aberdeen
Derek McInnes adores the winger and has already brought Niall McGinn back after his own departure. Hayes' best form of his career came in the Granite City during a wildly successful run between 2012 and 2017.
The Dons finished fourth for the second consecutive season but it's perhaps understandable considering the players they have lost since Hayes' final appearance for the Dons. The likes of Graeme Shinnie, Ryan Jack and Kenny McLean are long gone.
But perhaps McInnes would benefit by going back to come forward once again if he convinces the Irishman of a Pittodrie re-run.
Hibs
Jack Ross has made a telling impact at Easter Road but the ex-Sunderland boss needs reinforcements after a clutch of key men departed earlier this week when their loan deals expired. Hayes boundless energy would certainly win over the natives.
Paul Heckingbottom started fast before his side's lack of bite cost them. That would be unlikely to happen with the Republic of Ireland international in the team.
Motherwell
The Steelmen deserve major kudos for their work both on and off the park. Their stellar recruitment has allowed boss Stephen Robinson to field a team that's flourishing.
Motherwell love to grab a bargain south of the border but landing a player of Hayes' undoubted quality could make sense as they gear up for a European adventure.
Livingston
The finances might not make sense for either party but Hayes' no-nonsense style would marry perfectly with Gary Holt and David Martindale's philosophy.
And the Lions, known for their full-blooded approach, are criminally underrated as a footballing side and a player such as Hayes would only add to that.
The likes of Marvin Bartley and Efe Ambrose have flourished at the Tony Macaroni Arena.
A return to England
You would imagine the news of Hayes' Celtic departure will have a host of teams in the Championship and League One paying close attention to developments.
Hayes started his career at Reading before a short spell with Leicester immediately before his switch to the Highlands back in 2009.
A return to Ireland
Well, we say a return but Hayes hasn't played in his homeland since he was a teenager. The League of Ireland is ever-improving but it would be a surprise if the versatile star decided now was the time to head home.
