Ruairi Daly 
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Nir Bitton is quickly becoming a household name for fans outside of Celtic, and the midfielder feels right at home.
Rumours in recent days were linking him with a move to Arsenal, after the Premier League club sent scouts to watch the 23-year old against Fenerbahce in the Europa League.
During the international break, the Israeli’s name was in the spotlight after a fantastic long-range goal against Cyprus in their 2-1 loss. He has scored similar goals in the Hoops jersey, most notably against Kilmarnock earlier this season and Dundee last season.
Bitton’s contract does run out in the summer of 2017, but he has come out and said he is loving life at Celtic.
Speaking to Israeli media as reported by the Daily Mail, Bitton said:
Everything at the club runs smoothly and I’m enjoying every minute of it and have no thoughts about leaving.
It’s not the sexiest league in the world, but the games are tough and our opponents give 200 per cent. We’re expected to win every game but it’s not always possible.
The midfielder also said he would rather be playing for Celtic, than for his homeland team Maccabi Tev Aviv in the Champions League.
I’d rather play for Celtic in the Scottish Premiership than Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Champions League group stage.
The Scottish Premiership is simply better than the Israeli league. The Israeli league is more technical while the Scottish Premiership is stronger, faster and more intense.
He did admit it would be a dream line-up against the world’s best player’s one day.
My dream is to play in one of Europe’s top leagues.
I’m currently at a superb club but I would enjoy playing against the world’s best players.
Celtic will be keen to retain the services of the talented midfielder who has grown in leaps and bounds since his arrival.
He has trebled his goal tally for the season already, the most vital of the lot coming against Ajax last month and recorded two assists this season as well.
It’s clear to see Bitton is having a greater impact within the team, but will he be around for much longer if a big offer comes in from another club?
Eric Knott 
