Buchanan to leave Celtic

Cape Town - Bloemfontein Celtic will allow Keagan Buchanan to leave the club at the end of the season, following the Cape Town-born midfielder's surprise request to leave.

Buchanan has been with Celtic for the last three seasons after joining the club from FC Cape Town.

Although seen as a valuable member of the team, he has had his fair share of injury problems, and has only played in eight leagues matches for Phunya Sele Sele this season.

According to Bloemfontein Celtic CEO Khumbuani Konco, the player surprised the club by asking for a transfer this week.

"We were obviously stunned by Keagan’s request which he made immediately after arriving from Cape Town where he was recovering from torn ligament injury," Konco told the Celtic website.

"The team gave him time to recuperate at home and we constantly engaged with him through his manager and agreed we would finalise everything when he returns. 

"However, he came into the office this morning and asked to be released citing change of environment as one of the reasons to leave.

"The club would love to wish him all of the best in his future endeavours. I must concede, he was the most integral part of the team and served us with determination and absolute commitment."

The Cape Town-born central midfielder: "Unfortunately, I have taken the decision to move on. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity given to me by Celtic not only to play but to make a name for myself. 

"Although it was a difficult decision for all parties, I thank the management of the team for allowing me to leave. I will forever cherish the moments I have shared with the rest of the team."

The 25-year-old has subsequently been linked to Kaizer Chiefs, although there has been no confirmation as of yet.