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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Matt Bryan

Ryan Christie in emotional Celtic goodbye as new Bournemouth signing gushes over 'unconditional love'

Ryan Christie says he will always be grateful for Celtic as he departs thanking fans for their "unconditional love".

The midfielder ended his six-year stint at the Hoops after signing for Bournemouth on transfer deadline day.

It only cost the English Championship side £1.5million to complete the switch as he entered the final months of his contract at Parkhead.

The 26-year-old made a blistering start to the season under new boss Ange Postecoglou despite his future being uncertain for some time.

Ryan Christie warms up during a cinch Premiership match between Celtic and St Mirren (SNS Group)

However exit-bound Christie jumped at the chance to play for the Cherries who he claimed he had always had "an affection" for.

Christie is yet to meet his new teammates due to international duty as he helps Steve Clarke's men prepare for Saturday's crucial World Cup qualifying match with Moldova.

The playmaker admitted it was time for a new challenge as he took to Instagram to thank Celtic fans for their "incredible support" today.

Christie said: "Thank you @celticfc for the last 6 years of my life. I will be forever grateful to have played a very small part in this clubs massive history. The 6 trophies/ 2 trebles we won together were truly special and will always make me proud.

"Thank you to all 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 8 seasons in Scotland I felt it was time for a change and a fresh challenge and I am very excited for the new chapter that lies ahead."

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

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