It would've cost less, and left the previous owners with nothing, to go into liquidation. But it would also be humiliating for Celtic. So we paid all the bills. Celtic means the same to me as it does to other fans. I identify with the club and wish to be proud of it.
Being a Celtic supporter is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile.
Over the four years we have made massive progress: winning the League Championship (97/98); building the largest club stadium in the UK (60,000 seats); having the largest support (52,000 season book holders) of any club in Britain. This has been achieved by everyone who cares about Celtic working together towards a shared vision of football success and pride in a club which is part of our culture, open to all and a responsible member of the community working to help others where it can.
As I have indicated some time ago, I intend to divest my shareholding when I leave the Club. In doing so, my overriding principle is that I shall do what I believe is best for the future of Celtic. I have also indicated my intention that my shareholding will be made available to be held broadly amongst the supporters and existing shareholders of the Club. I believe that this should produce the best structure of ownership for the Club and the Company.
Celtic supporters want to be proud of their Club. That's all they want. It is what they deserve.
I'm just a footnote in the grand scheme of things. Brother Walfrid was the visionary who started things and his is a name that should stay in people's minds.
You cannot change the minds of the mindless. But that doesn't mean you just admit that's the way we have to live.
It's not just a football club. Celtic means so much to so many people.
That charity fund, inside and outside Scotland is a very important identity of Celtic Football Club.
I want people to judge me on what we have achieved after five years. I will go back to my home in Bermuda, play some golf and live a healthier life.
When we score a sublime goal I'm as happy as anyone but you don't get to enjoy a game. You can't possibly. The game's too important to enjoy.
Celtic is a community institution the supporters are entitled to be proud of.
You can't live on the hope of a television contract and play in a stadium with nobody there.
