Celtic’s Scotland internationals heading to the 2026 World Cup are unlikely to come up against former teammate Odsonne Edouard.
Scotland will play Haiti after drawing them in the same group alongside Brazil and Morocco in Group C.
As it is Haiti’s first World Cup campaign since 1974, head coach Sebastian Migne is trying to recruit some additional players to give them the best chance of competing but he has admitted that he is struggling to get Edouard to switch nationalities.
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Odsonne Edouard dreams of France call-up despite Haiti attempts
Edouard has been resurrecting his career in France, where he has been scoring goals for fun with Lens.
He qualifies to play for Haiti as it is where his parents are from, but he would prefer to represent France and hopes to be called up to the senior squad for the first time.
Migne said: “Technically speaking, Odsonne is a top-level striker. He’s one of the best forwards in our league. And any coach would love to work with him. He would bring added value to my squad.
“But he still clearly has his sights set on the French national team. From that point on, the debate is closed.
For me, I need players who are completely focused. And if a player isn’t 200% convinced by the project, it’s better to move on.”
Former Celtic players who could go to the 2026 World Cup
While the striker’s chances of playing at the World Cup hang in the balance, there will be a number of other former Celtic players who could be competing for their nations.
Ryan Christie may be one of those joining up with the Scotland squad and could be joined by his Bournemouth teammate Ben Gannon-Doak. Defender Jack Hendry may also be called up.
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Virgil van Dijk and Jeremie Frimpong are expected to be selected by the Netherlands and Kristoffer Ajer could feature for Norway.
Outside of Europe, Hyeongyu Oh is likely to lead the line for South Korea and Timothy Weah for co-host nation, the USA.
There are still some more current and former Hoops that could be heading stateside, but will have to compete in the play-offs.
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