Celtic target Sardar Azmoun quits international football after fan criticism

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Celtic have been linked with a move for Sardar Azmoun, with Brendan Rodgers believed to be a fan of the forward.

Celtic target Sardar Azmoun has announced his retirement from international football with Iran today, after criticism of his performances at the World Cup.

The Scotsman have claimed that Celtic were planning a bid for Azmoun, who has recently been in Russia with Iran.

And Celtic could benefit from Azmoun’s decision to stop playing for Iran.

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The striker failed to score in Russia, as Iran went out on the group stages, and he came under fire from supporters of his nation.

Celtic now need to weigh up whether Azmoun’s below-par performances at the World Cup are a reflection on his ability or simply a blip.

If Brendan Rodgers’ side do remain keen on signing Azmoun though, his decision to step down from his international team could benefit them.

Azmoun will no longer have to spend weeks travelling long-distances to represent Iran, and would remain on the training ground with Celtic during international breaks.

That could make the transfer even more appealing for Rodgers’ side, and if Azmoun is still on their wishlist, as reports have suggested, then Celtic should be pleased with the striker’s decision over his international future.