Albian Ajeti has explained why he always looks absolutely furious when substituted by Neil Lennon.
In recent weeks, it’s been noticeable that Ajeti has perhaps been a little over-the-top when coming off in matches. Against Lille, for example, he was seen assertively questioning Lennon on the touchline about something after he had been hooked.
He again looked fizzing when the same decision occurred at Fir Park two weeks ago despite the fact Celtic were cruising in the game. Again there was a bit of gesticulating and arms flailing as he made his way off.
For some that may look like a concern, but Ajeti has moved to calm any concerns over how he exits games. Instead, he’s explained that it’s simply the frustration of not scoring during his time on the pitch that angers him, and not a message to the manager.
Speaking in the Celtic View (18/11, page 14), Ajeti said: “I should try not to let it bother me because you can’t score in every game but I have that much fire in myself that I want to score in every game.
“If I play 60 minutes or 90 minutes I say to myself that I had 60 or 90 minutes to score a goal and I didn’t. This i just my mentality and it might look sometimes like I’m frustrated, but this isn’t frustration at the gaffer or anyone.
“It’s just me frustrated that I didn’t meet my own standards. The gaffer understands this because we’ve talked, he knows me and I love scoring goals.”
Ajeti’s frustration isn’t being channeled negatively
For the cynical, Ajeti’s frustration will be a concern for them. However, when you look at the way in which he’s channelling that energy, then you can’t really have any gripes with how he’s conducting himself.
He uses that aggression in a positive manner on the pitch – using his strength to combat opponents and keep Celtic in the final third of the pitch. His determination was great to see at Fir Park in particular two weeks ago.
As the half-time whistle blew in that one, not many would’ve been disappointed. Ajeti wasn’t happy though as he seemed to let Moi Elyounoussi know all about something he was displeased with. This was when we were 2-0 ahead and bossing things. You’ve simply got to love that tenacity.
But at the same time it’s also important for Ajeti to reveal this to the supporters. Many may not have been too pleased to see him so fuming when coming off, as it can set rumours ablaze about dressing room unrest and other nonsense.
Ajeti’s comments here halt that from happening. He’s explained any frustration shown is simply frustration in himself, albeit he may need to stop having conversations with the manager when he comes off if that’s the case!
Hopefully, the Swiss centre-forward can get back on the goal trail on Saturday when Celtic travel to Easter Road.
In other news, an international midfielder sent out a Celtic SOS over the summer; now he’s reportedly set to move elsewhere.
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