Phil Bardsley admits the Sunderland players wished Bolo Zenden was still with them.
The 35 year-old Dutchman is set to sign for Celtic.
Bardsley said: "I spent two years with Bolo at Sunderland and he's a great guy and a great professional.
"He's still a great player and we're disappointed not to have him at Sunderland. If he goes to Celtic he'll be a great success."