Rangers icon Ally McCoist was left gushing over World Cup star Haissem Hassan after his electric performance against Argentina, just hours after the winger was linked with a move to Celtic. The 24-year-old, who plays for Oviedo in Spain, is expected to leave the club following his impressive displays in the United States, with Celtic named as admirers alongside serious interest from Saudi Arabia.
McCoist Unaware of Celtic Link
McCoist, commentating on ITV, was blissfully unaware that Hassan had been tipped for a £4 million switch to Celtic as he caused Lionel Messi and Co fits during Egypt's controversial 3-2 defeat in Atlanta. Hassan was the architect of a sensational counter-attack goal from Mostafa Zico that was initially disallowed when the game was 1-0, before VAR intervened over a debatable foul on Lisandro Martinez.
Egypt would make it 2-0, again aided by Hassan's brilliance, but Argentina launched an improbable fightback to score three times in the final 11 minutes of a World Cup clash for the ages.
McCoist's Praise for Hassan
McCoist couldn't get enough of Hassan's second-half brilliance. Commentating on ITV, he said: "The finish is magnificent (from Zico), but I cannot believe the talent [Hassan] we have seen on the right hand touchline. Haissem Hassan, my goodness me. He gets it 10-15 yards inside his own half, I cannot wait to see it again." McCoist was also effusive in his praise for Hassan's role in Egypt's second goal which stood.
If Celtic are in for Hassan, the price is likely on the rise after his impressive tournament, which finished with a bang after his exploits against Argentina. The 24-year-old's performances have caught the eye of several clubs, and Celtic may face competition from Saudi Arabian sides for his signature.
