Mohamed Elyounoussi has insisted his main focus is on Celtic at the moment, despite comments from Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl suggesting he has a future in the English Premier League, The Glasgow Times reports.
Elyounoussi is on loan at Celtic for the season, but now in his year at the club, the idea of him staying permanently is not beyond the realm of possibility.
Hasenhuttl recently said, as quoted by The Evening Express: “I am very happy for [Elyounoussi] that he scored and I am happy to see it. And, definitely, the player has a chance to maybe come back in and to be a part of the team, maybe next year.”
Not exactly a full declaration of intent when it comes to the paper, but Southampton will understandably be watching his situation, and perhaps rising value, closely.
The Norwegian international has responded this week, stating that he hasn’t had much interaction with his manager down south (Evening Express) and that his entire energy is going towards what he can do for Celtic.
As quoted by The Glasgow Times, he said: “Is that good for my confidence? Yes, of course. I am glad to hear that. I follow what they are doing and I am pleased they are doing so well at the moment.
“But me personally now my main focus is on Celtic and playing as well as possible for this club and enjoying games. But I’m happy that Southampton are doing well as well.”
That will be pleasing to hear for Bhoys fans, especially in the wake of a stunning week that reminded everyone of the quality Elyounoussi has.
He scored a stunning double against Lille and followed that up with a Scottish Cup semi-final goal at Hampden.
Lennon is a huge fan of the player, describing him as ‘sublime’, ‘tremendous’ and ‘class’ recently (The Daily Record). It would be no surprise to see the club pursue his permanent signing at the end of the season.
If the attacking midfielder can continue building his goal and assist totals, there will be a clamouring from supporters for the deal to be done.
In other news, Nir Bitton wants international matches to be cancelled during the ongoing pandemic.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
