Celtic have announced that John Park, the Head of Football Development is to leave the club.

Park was credited as the scout behind Celtic’s successful player recruitment scheme that brought in players such as Victor Wanyama, Fraser Forster and Gary Hooper, players who were all subsequently sold on for considerable profit for the Parkhead club.

Park joined Celtic in 2007 after building a reputation at Hibs for spotting young talent.

Celtic Chairman, Ian Bankier, commented: "I thank John for his important contribution to the Club and, on behalf of the Board, give him our best wishes for the future.

"The identification and development of players is a fundamental part of the Club’s strategy and John has served the Club with distinction. The Club has commenced its search to appoint a successor to build on John’s work here.”

Celtic Chief Executive, Peter Lawwell, said: “John has played a key role in the identification of some fantastic Celtic players over the years, players who have entertained the Celtic support and have gone on to have great careers with Celtic and beyond.

"I would like to thank John for the excellent job he has done for the Club over the past nine years. I have enjoyed working with John and I am sorry that he has decided to move on. I wish John every success for the future.”