Nir Bitton has described Celtic’s smash and grab win over Rangers in Sunday’s League Cup as ‘the best feeling’. Bitton came on in response to Jeremie Frimpong’s red card and the versatile Israeli dug-in as Celtic made it ten domestic trophies in a row.
However, Bitton wasn’t taking the win for granted as he feared injuries might have hampered his Celtic career – as reported by the Daily Record. The 28-year-old thanked those in his life that drove him on to get fit and get back on the pitch.
“I think you do appreciate these moments. I’ve been out for too long and I can’t lie, it hurt me when I saw the team out celebrating all these trophies.
“You always fear the worst when you suffer these kinds of injuries.
“There was a moment when I was down and saying to myself my career could be finished.
“You need to spend time with your kids, your family and friends to learn to appreciate every moment.
“They drove me on and played a big part in my coming back. Sunday was the reward.”
Bitton has worked his way back to fitness after various injuries – including a potential career ending knee injury that saw 56 games missed as Celtic continued to dominate Scottish football. A Christopher Jullien goal and the heroics of Fraser Forster delivered Celtic their fourth league cup in a row. The midfielder turned defender is hungry for more success as he savours Sunday’s triumph.
“It’s the best feeling to win trophies –and against your biggest rival.
“I cherish this one and just want to continue winning medals with this club.
“I can’t even remember how many that is I have now – but it’s a lot. I think it’s maybe 13 or 14, so it’s not bad!
“But you never tire of winning. You always want more. It’s especially sweet when the odds are against us and everyone wants us to fail.
“It’s great to win these kind of games, when you don’t play so good but still walk away with the trophy.
“It’s just the best feeling.”
Bitton was an incredibly calming influence, which was necessary as Celtic were able to grind out the result that left the Rangers players in tears on the pitch. His ability to carry the ball,
Elsewhere, Bitton has said he wants to stay but his future is down to Peter Lawwell, see here.
