Former Celtic striker Gary Hooper has led new club Gulf United to a historic promotion to the UAE First Division after scoring the first goal in a decisive game.

The Englishman, who played for the Hoops between 2010 and 2013, helped his team secure back-to-back promotions for the first time in UAE footballing history after a 5-1 victory over Al Hilal.

Ex-Newcastle Untied defender Steven Taylor is coaching him at what is the forward's 10th club.

The club posted on social media: "A special night to end a special season. Gulf United become the first club in UAE history to win back-to-back promotions."

Hooper came through the ranks at Grays Athletic and Southend United in the English lower leagues before joining Neil Lennon's side from Scunthorpe United.

During his time in Glasgow he scored 80 goals for the Parkhead club and won two league titles and two Scottish Cups as well as playing a vital role in the Hoops reaching the last 16 of the Champions League during the 2012-13 campaign.

He joined Norwich in 2013 before having spells at Sheffield Wednesday, New Zealand-based A-League side Wellington Phoenix, Kerala Blasters in India and Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia.

In Cyprus he had originally linked up with ex-boss Neil Lennon but the reunion did not last long after the Northern Irishman was relieved of his duties late last year.

This led to him making a move to Dubai, which in total is the 12th team he has played for including loan spells.

READ MORE: How Celtic's Alistair Johnston tore Hearts asunder

Upon announcing his arrival, the team released a statement which read: "Gary Hooper is an Eagle. Hooper joins Gulf United from Europa League side Omonoia on the UAE transfer deadline day.

"A striker with pedigree at the very top of the game. Hooper is the only player to have scored in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, Premier League, Championship, FA Cup, League Cup, League 1, League 2, Scottish Premier League, Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup... but can he do it on a hot evening in Dubai?

"Welcome to the UAE, Gary."

Celtic Way:

Our Celtic Digest newsletter brings exclusive content directly to you rather than solely through the website. You can already find us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram but we will also send bespoke opinion pieces and special features directly to your email inbox every evening. Not only will you receive this article from Sean Martin, Tony Haggerty or Aidan Macdonald (or, sometimes, from all three) but you will also get easy access to our best content from the last 24 hours too. It’s a great way to keep up to date with what’s happening at Ange Postecoglou’s Scottish champions. To sign up, simply take five seconds to type in your email here. Simple!