This weekend marks the return of football from most of the top leagues around the world I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to reflect on the fortunes of former Celts after moving away from the club with their new clubs in the Premier League and beyond.
Undeniably, the biggest success to come from Celtic in recent history is that of Dutch centre-back Virgil Van Dijk.
It was clear during his time at Celtic that he would rise to the very top of the game with his pace, power, presence, defending and ability to also score.
He has become the most expensive defender ever with his move to Liverpool joining fellow Celtic alumni Andy Robertson, but he has become the best centre back in the world and one of the best defenders the league has ever seen.
Another great Celtic defender who has made it big in the English Premier League is Celtic Academy graduate Kieran Tierney.
His success at Arsenal has shown his undeniable talent and desire for the game with many a Gunner calling for him to be captain.
Tierney provides evidence of the strength of the Celtic Academy and its ability to nurture and develop talent capable of flourishing among the elites of football.
Van Dijk and Kieran Tierney are only the latest in a long line of Celts to prove themselves away from the club showing how remarkable Celtic’s eye for top talent.
When you consider the budget afforded to Scottish clubs, the revenue Celtic gain from transferring such players has enabled the club to compete in a way the meagre finances available from the poor sponsorship deals and prize money from trophy wins that the powers that be secure and provide.
With the transfer window almost close to an end take our *BRAND NEW* quiz and test your knowledge on Celtic’s most expensive transfers.