Adam Matthews has discussed how he almost came back to Celtic when Neil Lennon returned to the Hoops in 2019.

Matthews first joined Celtic from Cardiff City in 2011. He played at right-back and was part of a successful team. In four years at the club, he won four league titles and made 150 appearances. He also played in big matches, including the famous win over Barcelona in 2012 and the run to the last 16 of the Champions League.

He left Celtic in 2015 to join Sunderland. Since then, he has played for clubs like Bristol City, Charlton, and Omonia Nicosia in Cyprus. He now plays for Shamrock Rovers in Ireland.

The 32-year-old has now revealed that he spoke with Lennon about a possible return to Celtic during Lennon’s second time in charge.

He said: (RecordSport),”There was talk of it [a return] when Lennon went back.

“I spoke to him a couple of times about it and nothing materialised from it, really.

“But I would have loved to have the opportunity to go back, but it didn’t happen. I’ve been up a couple of times to watch some games and watch them every time they’re on TV. So, I’m a fan now. So, that’s better than being nothing.

“The best moments of my career have definitely come at Celtic.

“The group of boys, we all got on well. The fans… It’s just a different club. You don’t realise unless you either support the team or play for the team, you don’t realise how special that club is. I loved every minute of it.”

Although he never got the chance to pull on the green and white hoops again, Matthews still follows the Hoops closely. His love for the club is clear, and he remains a fan even though his playing days at Celtic are behind him.

He’s one of many former players who still feel a strong bond with Celtic, showing just how deep the Hoops’ influence can run.

Matthews is now focused on the final stages of his playing career in Ireland, but his time at Celtic continues to shape how he views the game.