Elhamed is set to exit Parkhead for personal reasons, reveals boss

CELTIC manager Neil Lennon last night confirmed that Hatem Abd Elhamed has been allowed to leave the club for personal reasons.

The Israeli full-back is close to rejoining Hapoel Be’er Sheva, the side from which Celtic bought him for a fee in the region of £1.6million in July 2019.

The 29-year-old (below) last featured for Celtic as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat to Rangers on January 2 and has been granted his wish to return home.

‘A deal’s been agreed with

Be’er Sheva,’ said Lennon after yesterday’s 2-1 win over Motherwell.

‘He was going through a really difficult time, his wife and son were back in Israel and he was here on his own.

‘He was really struggling with life away from the training ground and stadium. We have to take into consideration the human factor on that.

‘I wouldn’t say he was suffering with depression but he was very low, so we have made the right decision for him and the club. I think their transfer window is open, so there are no issues with that.’

Speaking after goals from Stephen Welsh and Odsonne Edouard had secured a narrow win at Parkhead, Lennon insisted his team had been good value for the points, despite riding out a late ambush from Motherwell.

‘I thought we deserved it,’ he said. ‘I thought we were outstanding for a good 60-70 minutes, then Motherwell get a bit of luck with the goal and change the psychology of it.

‘Our reaction was okay, their keeper has made a good save from Tom (Rogic). We had an anxious moment at the end and are thankful to Diego (Laxalt) for a great clearance.

‘I thought we were really good in the first half and even in the second half, it was some of the best football this season.

‘Some of the football they played today was great, the body language, the energy of the team and the chances created. I am just disappointed that we didn’t win by more.’

The win leaves Celtic 20 points adrift of league leaders Rangers in what has been a trial of a season for Lennon.

The emergence of 21-year-old Welsh is one bright spot for the manager. Starting alongside Kristoffer Ajer for the second consecutive match, Welsh took his goal with the same authority he applied to his tackling and heading duties.

‘He’s put together two really strong games,’ said Lennon.

‘There’s nothing to change my thinking at the minute with that partnership.

‘He’s been on the periphery for a few years and never lets us down. He’s a model pro.’