Jiri for the Joe le Toff

Last updated : 05 June 2007 By Clydebuilt

Celtic midfielder Jiri Jarosik has given Gordon Strachan a clear indication that he is not willing to fight for his place in a league he doesn’t consider himself suited to. The Czech Republic international said yesterday, "Coach Strachan has confirmed he wants me to stay but I told him how I feel about the situation.

"Celtic are a really big club and it was great to play in front of 60,000 fans. It was a successful season too, winning two trophies and qualifying from the group stages of the Champions League.

Recent allegations about his private life have proven to be the final straw for the versatile player and he is looking for a return either back down south or to Russia. "I feel the Premiership offers me more than Scottish football. In my eyes, it is the best league in the world and I want to play in it again.

"In the SPL the football is, above all, about fighting and challenging. I felt a little bit better in England on the pitch, and in my private life too.

"I heard my name linked with a move to Tottenham and if that was to work out it would be interesting. They are an ambitious club.

"If I move I'd like to go to either England or Russia - I still have a good name in Russia."

We wish you all the best for the future Jiri.

Yours in Celtic

Clydebuilt