Strachan puts the fans first after claiming third successive SPL title as he has last laugh on Celtic's critics

The former Scotland international became only the third coach in the 120-year history of the Parkhead club to claim three consecutive league championships.

In an incredible climax to the league season, Aberdeen's shock victory over a shattered Rangers side sparked ecstasy at Tannadice, where Dutch striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink's 72nd- minute header dispelled last-night nerves.

Three in a row: Celtic celebrate their title victory

As recently as April 6, when Rangers were seven points clear with a game in hand, Strachan was facing calls for his head after a 1- 0 home defeat by Motherwell.

In a statement lasting around a minute last night, backed by a raucous chorus of delighted Celtic fans in the street, the 51-year-old took aim at those who had written off his battling players.

"It has been an incredible night, an incredible season and I thank the players for their belief, their character and all their ability," he said.

"It has been one of the most memorable seasons I have ever had in my life. As I have said to you before, I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. We have achieved what we set out this season to do.

"And now, it's only fair that I go and be with people who have supported and believed in us for the whole season," concluded Strachan, while refusing to answer questions from the waiting media.

The victory over Dundee United capped an emotional week for Celtic. Just 48 hours earlier, the funeral of club legend Tommy Burns had led to thousands of fans turning up at Parkhead to pay their respects.

Last night, that mood of honouring a lost idol was maintained with a highly- charged rendition of <cite>You'll Never Walk Alone </cite>following the trophy presentation.

Afterwards, chief executive Peter Lawwell branded Strachan a Celtic 'legend' following the manager's lengthy struggle for acceptance from the supporters.

Mastermind: Celtic boss Gordon Strachan lifts aloft the SPL trophy

Lawwell said: "He (Gordon) goes down in Celtic's history as a legend. We have been written off and come back to win the title. It's a wonderful night for this club. It has been a week for this club that we should all be proud of.

"It has been a very emotional week  -  terrible grief, terrible sorrow  -  but tonight we can be proud to be Celtic supporters."

In the midst of their joy, Celtic and their supporters never allowed the memory of Burns to stray from their minds after the former manager's death from cancer last week at the age of 51.

Striker Scott McDonald ended the season on 30 goals and finally put paid to the events of 2005 when his goals for Motherwell against Celtic handed the title to Rangers.

Paying his respects to Burns, the Australian international said: 'We loved Tommy. He was just a gentleman at heart, God rest his soul. We did this for you, Tommy  -  God bless.

"This night is something I will never forget. After three years ago, it's great to put that right and I'm certainly going to enjoy this."

United manager Craig Levein said: "I'm happy for Gordon. He got a bit of stick at some points during the season and, as a manager, I know how difficult that is.

"The championship table doesn't tell lies, though I do feel sorry for Walter Smith at Rangers."