Brendan: I fear transfer talk is messing with Moussa’s mind

BRENDAN RODGERS last night warned non-stop transfer noise is in danger of messing with Moussa Dembele’s mind. The Celtic manager admitted constant speculation surrounding his star striker may have an adverse effect on the youngster as he launched a staunch defence of the French kid’s character. Dembele is a wanted man with numerous English Premier League clubs eyeing a £20million swoop for the hitman this month. But, while stating no concrete bids have been lodged with Celtic for their

top gun, Rodgers made it clear that incessant chat about his future could harm the 21-year-old’s development.

He said: “My mind is that he’s a Celtic player and we have not had one bid.

“I don’t want to keep going on about it because it can affect players, especially young players.

“There has been a lot of noise around Moussa for 18 months now.

“He has been linked with about 16 clubs but the bottom line is you have to play football.

“I don’t want to go into speaking about speculation because it has been non-stop and it could hinder the development of a player, not just Moussa.

“It can be very unhelpful for a young player.

“If you are an experienced player you get used to it.

“But if you’ve been linked with so many clubs over a period of time then it surely can be unsettling.

“Obviously there has been enquiries around him but not one bid and Moussa is at a stage in his career where he needs to keep proving he can play for Celtic.

“Then whatever comes from that will come. I’ve had a few private conversations and I give the reality about what the situation is.

“It’s something that all takes its course.”

Meanwhile, Rodgers is adamant there are no issues with Dembele’s attitude and commitment at Celtic.

Former Hoops hero Kris Commons branded the youngster “disrespectful” for walking slowly off the pitch while being substituted during the 0-0 draw with Rangers last month and heading straight down the tunnel.

However, Rodgers said: “Moussa is not that type. It’s one of the beauties of him. He’s a really good boy and super professional.

“He does walk slow. The boys will tell you. He virtually breaks into a walk!

“He times his run perfectly for team meetings. We are all waiting to fine him for being late!

“He has this incredible knack. We don’t know if he hides at the back and just steps in.

“But seriously, Moussa is a very relaxed boy. He’s laidback but professional.

“I don’t know what the noise was but that’s not the type of group I have.”