“I never wanted to leave Celtic” – UEFA Cup finalist tells of ‘regret’

I have to say, as a player, Shaun Maloney was one of my favourites growing up as a Celtic fan.

A free-kick specialist and a tricky winger/striker, Maloney was a product of the Celtic youth system that went on to have a great career, even when he left the club.

And not many players can say that.

From Celtic to Aston Villa and back to Celtic again, Maloney picked up a raft of honours whilst representing our club and when he left us for the second time, his career continued to be successful when he won the FA Cup with Wigan.

But it was the first time he left Celtic that leaves a massive hole of regret for the former Scotland man.

In an interview with World Football Index, Maloney said, “I never wanted to leave Celtic. Even up until deadline day when I left for Villa, I still wanted to be staying at Celtic.

“I wanted to sign a long-term contract with the club but it became apparent that both sides were not going to meet and I left for Villa.

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“I was young at the time but I regret not being more hands-on during that time because if I had the chance to sit down with Gordon and the owner of the club then I do not think I would ever have left.

“I wanted to stay and the club wanted me to stay but once an agreement was not reached, Villa bid and I joined up with Martin again.”

Maloney does still have the desire to work as a coach or manager and one does wonder if he will ever find his way to Celtic Park.