Celtic midfielder Jackson Irvine has joined Ross County on a two-year deal after the clubs agreed upon a settlement for the player.

The 22-year-old Australian spent last season on loan with the Staggies and played a pivotal role in their successful battle against relegation.

Celtic had offered Irvine a new contract, but the player insists that it was simply to protect their claim to compensation, as it was made clear to him that he was surplus to requirements at the Parkhead club.

He is now hoping to face his old club in this weekend's Premiership curtain-raiser.

"It has been a long month or so, trying to get everything in place," he said.

"I'm sure you're familiar with the compensation laws regarding players under 23, so Celtic did offer me a new contract. But it was essentially just as insurance so that, when I did leave, they were liable to claim their compensation money.

"There was never really any plan for me to [stay there]. I was told from the very beginning of the summer I was free to move on elsewhere.

"It was just about the club sorting the financial side of it, as well as myself. Unfortunately, we didn't part on the kind of terms I would have liked to after nearly six years with Celtic, but I will be hoping to be involved on Saturday."

County manager Jim McIntyre added: "Jackson was a pivotal part of what we did last year, so I'm delighted we've agreed a deal with Celtic to sign him permanently.

"He played a real part in helping us achieve our goals and he is just desperate to come and play football for us."