Celtic have confirmed that first-team coach Alan Thompson has departed the club but have defended their decision to axe the 38-year-old by telephone.

Thompson's lawyer announced yesterday that the coach had been relieved of his duties, but the Scottish Premier League outfit have claimed that Thompson was invited to a meeting with manager Neil Lennon.

A statement on Celtic's official website read: "We can also confirm that a meeting was set up between Alan Thompson and Neil Lennon on Sunday in Newcastle.

"However, Alan refused to meet with Neil, hence the reason for the discussion being conducted by telephone. The matter is now in the hands of lawyers and, therefore, we are unable to go into any further details."

Thompson moved to the Scottish outfit in 2010.