Bitton happy not to be driven out of Celtic

to do my best and we qualified for the Champions League.

“It was a big achievement for me because a lot of people doubted me. They were saying Celtic had no chance of qualifying with Bitton at centre-back.

“Some people around the club, some journalists, some people on TV were saying it. We are all human. We all have ears – and I have big ears!

“I wouldn’t say that gets me angry. It just gives me extra motivation and drive. “The people who doubt me and my ability, I want to show them I can do it. There’s nothing better than showing your haters that you can do what they say you can’t – and that you can succeed.”

Bitton was delighted it was Neil Lennon, the man who signed him in 2013, who landed the Celtic job after Rodgers’ exit.

He said: “The appointment of Neil made me very happy because he knows me.

“He signed me when I was just a young boy and has trusted me through my career. It was an easy adjustment when I came back because I knew him from his first time here and I want to give 100 per cent for him again. It’s difficult for him. He can’t say you are starting every week or you are a squad player. It’s not something he’ll say to any player.

“It’s about the team. Sometimes there are injuries and suspensions and you need to step in and do your job.

“I am just happy the club trust me with a new contract. It’s a great time to be at Celtic. One of the hardest things for me when I was injured was watching the team celebrating and you know you are not part of it.

“I’m just happy to be back playing and contributing to winning trophies.”