Balikwisha Blames Celtic for World Cup Snub; Aasgaard Relishes Rangers Exit
Michel-Ange Balikwisha says Celtic's loan block cost him a World Cup spot, while Thelo Aasgaard is happy to have left Rangers for Anderlecht.
Celtic winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha has pointed the finger at his club for his omission from DR Congo's World Cup squad, according to the Scottish Sun. The 25-year-old believes Celtic's decision to reject a loan move to a Major League Soccer side last season denied him the playing time needed to secure a place, and he now hopes his current loan at Gent can be made permanent.
Balikwisha's frustration contrasts with Thelo Aasgaard's relief at swapping Rangers for Anderlecht. The Norway midfielder told the Glasgow Times that leaving on loan was the right call after he decided he needed a fresh challenge. The 24-year-old's comments suggest he felt a change of scene was necessary for his career.
In other transfer news, Algeria winger Fares Ghedjemis, who was linked with both Celtic and Rangers, explained to The Herald why he chose to extend his contract with promoted Frosinone instead. The 24-year-old said the Italian club convinced him of their ambition to become a major force in Serie A.
Shayden Morris, meanwhile, has expressed mixed feelings about his Aberdeen exit. The 24-year-old winger, now at Luton Town, told the Daily Record he would have been happy to stay at Pittodrie but felt a lack of respect during contract talks. His departure came after he became a fan favourite in his final season.
Elsewhere, Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has revealed he opted against signing Ruari Paton permanently after the striker's loan from Port Vale, but he is pleased to see the 26-year-old thriving at St Johnstone. Former Celtic captain Scott Brown also disclosed that he turned down the Cheltenham Town manager's job just days after leaving Fleetwood Town.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
