West Bromwich Albion have snapped up John Hartson from Celtic on a two-year contract.
The former Wales international striker put pen to paper on the deal at The Hawthorns having discussed the move with Albion manager Bryan Robson.
"I have had five fantastic years in Scotland and been lucky enough to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world," Hartson John said today.
The 31-year-old was a firm favourite with Celtic supporters, scoring over 100 goals for the club in all competitions.
Hartson was named the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' Player of the Year for the 2004-05 season after scoring 30 goals in 49 games.
Although he had one year remaining on his contract at the club, a move was always on the cards after it emerged they had opened talks with West Brom, despite Hartson telling manager Gordon Strachan he wanted to stay in Scotland.
The former Coventry, Wimbledon, West Ham, Arsenal and Luton hitman today paid tribute t o Celtic and especially the fans he left behind.
Hartson added: "Everybody at Celtic Football Club made my time there special and I would like to thank all the players and staff for making me so welcome.
"I would like to say a special thank you to the fans, who have been extraordinary.
"From day one they supported me and gave me all the encouragement I needed to give my best for the team.
"The feeling of scoring a goal at Celtic Park is something that will live with me always and for that I will always be grateful that I made the move to Scotland."
Despite his reluctance to leave Glasgow Hartson, who cost the Glasgow giants £6 million in August 2001, said he felt the time was right to return to English football.
He said: "For a variety of reasons the time is now right for me to make a change and to return to English football.
"I spoke to Bryan Robson and was impressed with his plans for next season.
"Obviously he wants Premiership football back at The Hawthorns as soon as possible and that leaves me with another big challenge on my hands.
"I feel fit and healthy and cannot wait for the new season to start now. I am looking forward to a new adventure."
