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Former Celtic star breaks silence on 'no-brainer' EFL transfer after debut as ex-Hoops teammate bags winner Defender completed transfer to the English second tier this summer Former Celtic centre back Stephen Welsh claims his transfer to EFL Championship side was a ‘no-brainer’ as he knew he was no longer part of the plans at Parkhead. The 26-year old left for the Liberty Stadium in June - marking the end of his 18 year association with Celtic. Before that, the academy graduate was sent out on loan to Motherwell last season but was recalled by manager Martin O’Neill in January. After playing two games for the Hoops, he was subsequently sent back to Fir Park for the rest of the season. At this point, the Scotsman claims he knew his time at the club was up. Welsh joined a few familiar faces on the south coast of Wales, including former Hoops transfer target and Motherwell teammate Elijah Just. Ex Celtic striker Adam Idah is also currently plying his trade with the Swans, as he bagged the winner on Saturday in an opening day 2-1 victory away to Stoke City. Speaking to CeltsAreHere after a successful league debut, the defender explained why moving on from Celtic was a ‘no-brainer’. Welsh on Swansea switch He said: “Going back to Motherwell in January that was probably the point that I knew that I had to move on in the summer. It’s a tough decision but I think selfishly you need to make decisions for your own career, they need to for the club as well so we just came to an agreement that it would be best to move on. As soon as Swansea came calling it was a no-brainer for me.” The defender impressed last season at Fir Park in an over-achieving Motherwell side who secured European football. However, when returning to Celtic, he remained behind the likes of defenders Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty and Liam Scales in the selection pecking order. The Hoops also offloaded stopper Maik Nawrocki to Ligue 1 side Lens in the summer. The Pole also had an impressive debut at his new club, helping them lift the Trophee Des Champions in a 1-0 win over Champions League winners PSG. Despite Welsh having a year left on his Celtic contract, it was terminated early as a gesture of goodwill for his long service to the club. When asked if he was surprised by this decision, he responded: “I don’t know the financial logistics but for me it’s about playing and being involved with the squad. “Obviously they didn’t see me as part of that which is fair enough. It’s a football business at the end of the day which is cutthroat so you need to respect every decision made. Honestly it probably suited me in the end because I get to come down here without any transfer fees. It was club to player which made it easier for Swansea.” Welsh’s emotional Celtic farewell After leaving the club in June, via Instagram, Welsh wrote: “Celtic has always been a massive part of my life. Being able to live your dream is something I would never take for granted. 18 years of ups, downs and special moments that so few have the privilege to experience. I would like to thank every staff member and player who have been part of this journey. The work behind the scenes from an early age until now doesn’t go unnoticed. “I would also like to thank my family who, without them, none of this would’ve been possible. And finally to the fans. You follow the team everywhere we go and support us through thick and thin. A special mention to Green Brigade and Bhoys. You’re there and you’re always there. Although sometimes things can be tough on and off the pitch you stick by the team through it all. Thank you.”