Former Celtic star Tom Rogic given World Cup ultimatum by Australia boss Graham Arnold as he’s told to find new club
AUSTRALIA boss Graham Arnold has warned former Celtic hero Tom Rogic he is risking losing his World Cup dream if he doesn't sort himself out with a new club soon.
The Socceroo quit Celtic in the summer, but has yet to pledge his future anywhere despite being linked with clubs in his homeland, Indonesia and Cyprus.
It was even suggested last week that the 29-year-old could quit the game altogether.
And Arnold is hoping the 53-times capped midfielder sorts out his future soon, with the World Cup in Qatar starting in three months.
He said: "Tommy’s you know, he’s a very private person. And we had the conversation about him pulling out of the play-off against Peru for personal issues.
I don’t need to know what they are. He didn’t want to delve into that which is his right and priority.
READ MORE CELTIC STORIES
"But he’s like every other player, you know, he has to play. It’s not like he’s signed something to say that he’s coming.
"He’s got to play and he’s got to get a club and he’s got to be performing well, and so we’re just waiting to see where that lands.
"I still haven't heard from him and I haven’t tried to reach out for the last couple of months.
"At the initial time when he pulled out I had a concern because it was for personal reasons – and you know, again, Tommy has the right whether to say yes or no or tell me what they are, and he didn’t want to delve in that - everyone has those rights.
Most read in Football
"Initially, I was concerned about him, but I have seen photos of him out and about and he looks healthy, looks well. And, as I said, he’s the type of person that likes to be left alone and I’ve left him alone."
Meanwhile, Celtic star Jota dedicated his wonder-strike today to Benfica legend Chalana.
Taking a touch 30 yards out, the former Portugal under-21 star unleashed a thunderbolt that rocketed right into the top corner of Sam Walker's goal.
A dazzling strike and one that allowed Jota to pay tribute to a football legend.
Jota went running straight to the cameras pointing towards his wristband.
As the TV camera zoomed in, "Chalana" could be read on the white band.
It was a lovely tribute from the Celtic man to a Benfica legend who passed away earlier this week.
Fernando Chalana made over 200 appearances for the Portuguese club between 1976 and 1984 and was also capped by his country.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
He had a second spell at Benfica between 1987 and 1990 and is fondly remembered as one of Benfica's greatest ever players.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page