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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

Celtic-linked Lyanco exits Southampton as loan deal confirmed for defender

Celtic-linked Lyanco has departed Southampton after sealing a move to Qatar with Al Gharafa.

The defender has made 49 appearances for Saints since joining in 2021 but has featured just once for Russell Martin’s side so far in 2023/24.

The 26-year-old joins The Cheetahs with just two games of the Qatar Stars League played, with Pedro Martins’s side sitting in fifth place with four points.

At the weekend Lyanco was linked with a shock move to Celtic, with the Hoops currently searching for defensive reinforcements.

A Southampton statement added: "The club wishes Lyanco good luck for the remainder of the season."

Meanwhile, Celtic winger Sead Haksabanovic appeared to express dissatisfaction with his situation on the fringes of the team after a stalemate against St Johnstone at the weekend.

Writing on his verified Instagram account, Haksabanovic posted a photo of himself in a Celtic strip and said: “If they don’t see your value maybe you’re not at the right place.”

The Montenegro international has only started 13 games since joining Celtic 12 months ago, four since the World Cup, and has made two substitute appearances under Rodgers.

The comment quickly drew criticism from former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who wrote on Twitter: “Haksabanovic may have a point but he’s out of order making his point in public.

“Just go and knock on the managers door and tell him if you’re unhappy… and playing well also helps!”

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