Former Celtic defender Hatem Elhamed admits that the way his Parkhead spell ended was "disappointing" as he opened up on his return to Israel.
The right-back was homesick in Glasgow without his family and returned to Hapoel Be'er Sheva in January.
Manager Neil Lennon admitted the move was as much for the player's good as anything else as Elhamed struggled with lockdown life.
And the defender admits being unable to contribute as the Premiership title defence went awry left him feeling frustrated.
Elhamed said: "I have mixed feelings about coming back home.
"I had a very hard time in Glasgow because I was alone due to the Covid restrictions. I was not allowed to go anywhere and I had to be home all day.
"But I didn't return just for that, I only came back because Hapoel are a big club with huge ambitions.
"I had a very successful season and a half at Celtic professionally. But I had a period of injury of three to four months that halted my progress, which was disappointing.
"Personally, I am delighted to return to a club I have a big connection with and I was very happy to see some fans too.
"I am convinced we will fight for the title and be in the Champions League next season."
