Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart has praised Aaron Mooy on social media after the Australian announced his retirement.

The 32-year-old enjoyed a successful season at Parkhead in which he scored seven goals and provided 11 assists as the Hoops won a domestic treble.

However, he dropped out of the squad during the closing part of the season which prompted questions about his future.

And the midfielder officially confirmed he was walking away from the game due to a back injury.

He said: "While it feels really sad to be leaving the game, I just feel the time is right for me. I have been so fortunate to enjoy such a great career across the last 15 years, creating some fantastic memories.

"'I am delighted to finish my career on such a high with Celtic and I would like to thank all the fans for the great support they gave me during the past year - I was delighted to be part of such a memorable season.

"I hope Celtic continue to dominate the game and I wish Brendan, the new manager, great success with the great group of lads at the club."

This prompted Hart to leave a message on an Instagram post from the club, thanks Mooy for his contribution.

He wrote: "Fair play" along with the clapping hands and four leaf clover emojis.

READ MORE: The uncertain Celtic future of Liel Abada - Ryan McGinlay

Meanwhile, Celtic star Jota could earn more than £10million per year completely tax-free if he seals a shock exit to Saudi.

The winger, 24, emerged as a transfer target for mega-rich Al-Ittihad on Thursday with reports suggesting a deal is close.

Jota - signed from Benfica in the summer for around £6.5m - is a fan favourite at Celtic and there had been little expectation of a departure this summer until the breaking reports.

However, it appears Jota could be on his way out of Celtic and land a life-changing salary in Saudi Arabia should the £20m transfer be agreed.

Celtic would stand to make a profit on Jota after making his loan permanent but it's understood Benfica would be due a sell-on fee if a transfer is finalised.

The Daily Mail report Jota has agreed terms on a salary in excess of £10m per year tax-free. That equates to a weekly wage of more than £192,000.