CRAIG Bellamy has ruled out a move to Celtic after claiming the Parkhead side could not afford his fee or his wages.

The Wales international had a successful loan spell at Parkhead in the 2004-05 season before he moved to Blackburn.

However, the 29-year-old striker, now playing for West Ham, moved to end rumours that he is set to return to Glasgow in January.

‘‘I am very happy where I am,’’ said the former Newcastle player. “I have been with Celtic and I like Celtic a lot – everybody knows that I had a great time there.

‘‘But when was the last time Celtic paid £7m for a player?

‘‘When was the last time Celtic went to the wages that I am earning at West Ham?

‘‘I know the chief executive Peter Lawwell very well. I’ve spoken to him and I know that he would like to have me there. But if we are all being realistic it’s never going to happen.’’