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Dundee United’s Nadir Ciftci determined not to be distracted

Dundee United’s Nadir Ciftci determined not to be distracted

Dundee United’s Nadir Ciftci insists he remains fully focused on helping his team make it into Europe and is not distracted by speculation over his future.

The 23-year-old was the subject of attention from a posse of English scouts at last weekend’s game against St Johnstone.

Celtic are also believed to have a keen interest in the Turk who has netted 14 goals this season.

However, Ciftci himself is just determined to help United win their last two games starting at Inverness this afternoon and hopefully play for the Tangerines in the Europa League next season.

When asked if he knew about the scouts being at the Saints game, he admitted: “To be honest, I didn’t know that was the case. That was until I read about it!

“It’s not really my worry to think about it too much. At the moment, my future is still here.

“I’m still under contract and I’m concentrating on finishing the season well on a personal note and for the team.

“Whatever happens, I will think about it when it comes. So far, I have not become distracted.

“Like I said, I just want the season to finish well for United.

“It would mean a lot for me to help get United into Europe.

“I have never played in Europe. So it would be a good achievement for myself.

“And of course I would like to be here for that!”

Ciftci will soon enter the last year of his contract at Tannadice and boss Jackie McNamara has intimated he would like to persuade the striker to sign a longer deal with the club.

That is something the Turk would be happy to do but he is still awaiting word from his agent Pierre van Hooijdonk that United have moved to open talks.

He said: “I’ve not heard anything yet. If my agent is phoned then we can speak about it.

“I would be happy to sit down and talk about a new contract with the manager.

“We will see what happens.

“If that’s what the manager is saying then we can look at it. I’m very happy here.

“I always have a smile on my face when I’m playing. Sometimes I am angry but that is just the passion!

“I’m happy so long as I’m playing and things are going well.

“There were teams I could have gone to before I signed here but this is where I wanted to come.

“Of course, the manager showed me loyalty and has given me the chance to show what I can do.

“So I am thankful for what he has done for me so far.”

Ciftci has not scored in the last five games for United, although he did hit the woodwork with a stunning strike against Saints and he admitted he is happy with the way he has played this season.

He said: “I’m pleased overall with my form.

“Hopefully now we can finish fourth and, if Inverness win the Scottish Cup, we can get into Europe.

“That would be a great way to end the season.

“I am happy overall with my form this term.

“We also reached the final of the League Cup but obviously I wasn’t able to play in it.”

United will be without the injured Callum Morris, Ryan Dow, Paul Paton, Mario Bilate and Ryan McGowan.