Matt O'Riley says finding words to describe his Celtic departure hasn’t been easy - but he has delivered on his vow to address fans following his record-breaking move to Brighton. 

The popular midfielder left Celtic on Monday after two-and-a-half years spell and told his new club’s in-house media team about the difficult decision to pack his bags and head across the border. 

The Denmark international endured a nightmare debut though, with the 23-year-old picking up an ankle injury during the opening minutes of an Carabao Cup tie against Crawley Town, which could see him sidelined long-term. 

But taking to Instagram on Thursday evening, O’Riley penned an emotional message where he hailed Hoops’ local fanbase and expressed the honour of representing the Glasgow club. 

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“Hey Celts,” he addressed supporters on the social media platform.

“This isn’t an easy message to write but I just wanted to express how grateful I am to have been able to represent this special football club.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be in an environment and team full of great people. All my teammates and the staff made it easy for me to settle in right from day one and feel part of the family.

“The joy I have experienced when wearing the badge and playing in front of you guys is one like no other.

“Every single game was an absolute privilege to be a part of and I’m thankful I got to be at the club during a successful period.

“When they say it’s a club like no other it truly is. You guys are one of a kind and it is a credit to all of you for providing such an amazing atmosphere week in week out.

“Much love, Matty.”