St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson has warned former Celtic striker Nadir Ciftci he can’t show the kind of ill-discipline that attracted controversy in a recent match against Motherwell.
Ciftci was visibly annoyed at being substituted off against the Steelmen before the international break, leaving his manager less than happy with his actions.
However, he bounced back with a hard-working performance against Livingston on Saturday and is set to start against his former club at Paradise this weekend.
Describing him as ‘very emotional’, Davidson has told reporters this week what he’s looking for from the Turkish target man.
As quoted by The Scottish Sun [06/04 print edition, page 52], the Saints boss said: “I wasn’t especially happy with Nadir against Motherwell. He has to prove himself again.
“When he first came into the team he was really good, then his injury hampered him. I don’t know if it was a confidence thing, or being unsure about his hamstring, but Nadir’s quality has never been in doubt. He’s very similar to Callum Hendry – very good with his back to goal. He links the play well and makes those intelligent runs.
“His workrate was really good at the start (vs Livingston). I’m pleased the fans could see that and appreciate that. But I expect that attitude all the time from Nadir.
“We all know he’s a very emotional person – I remember that back when he was playing for Dundee United against us. It’s about making sure we get the best out of him, hopefully he can start getting a few goals to help us massively.”
Nadir Ciftci will be motivated to do a job vs Celtic
Ciftci signed for Celtic in 2015 under Ronny Deila but failed to make an impact at the Bhoys. His years at the club were mostly spent out on loan before making a permanent move back to Turkey.
He remained there playing for various clubs until returning to Scotland and signing for St Johnstone in the January transfer window.
The 30-year-old is yet to score in eight matches but has part of the Perth side’s turnaround in form and move away from Dundee at the bottom of the Premiership.
He’ll have a point to prove on Saturday at Celtic Park so let’s not give him the chance to make headlines at our expense at a critical time of the season!
In other news, Doors open for Celtic duo on World Cup international scene after injuries.
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