Celtic winger Haissem Hassan has addressed the criticism over his lack of goals and assists, insisting the numbers will improve as he continues to settle in Glasgow following his summer move from Real Oviedo.
The Egyptian international has shown flashes of the dribbling skill that impressed at the World Cup, but has yet to open his Hoops goal account and has faced questions over his end product.
Hassan confident numbers will come
Hassan believes the statistics do not tell the full story, pointing out that a chance can be created but a team-mate still has to finish it. He is convinced his output will improve as he grows more comfortable in his new surroundings.
“I am happy here. It’s a nice city. I live here with my family and they are happy here, too,” Hassan said. “It is cold but it is good! It’s a big city that has it all so I’m happy here. It’s good to feel the love of the fans. I try to stop as much as possible and take a photo with them.”
The winger admitted the early evening kick-off times in Scotland have taken some getting used to after living in France and Spain, where dinner is eaten much later.
“I like the culture. But I have been living in France and Spain where people have dinner quite late. Here it’s very early so it’s the only thing I need to get used to,” he added.
First goal feels close
Hassan came close to his first Celtic goal in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Dundee United and has had other near misses. He is eager to open his account and add assists to his game.
“I am really keen to score my first goal for Celtic and also add assists. The goal feels closer and closer. The other day I was close. The game before that I assisted goals so hopefully it will come soon,” Hassan said.
The winger joined Celtic for a fee north of £6million after a summer-long pursuit. He has been used mainly as a substitute in recent weeks, with manager Martin O’Neill working on the defensive side of his game.
“Defensive-wise I need to improve. On the attacking side I need the numbers on goals and assists,” Hassan said. “I should not be losing my head about it. I just need to focus on training. When I get the minutes, I need to try to produce and contribute to the team’s performance.”
O’Neill and Maloney guidance
Hassan acknowledged that assistant manager Shaun Maloney, a former winger, has played a big role in helping him settle. He also values the guidance of O’Neill, a two-time European Cup winner.
“Shaun helps me a lot. He is close to the players and always tries to help them. He had a good career as a winger. Whenever he speaks to me, I always try to listen and take it into account. Having him as a reference point really helps me,” Hassan said.
The Egyptian also welcomed the competition for places among Celtic’s wingers, saying it pushes everyone to perform at a higher level.
European hopes remain
Celtic face Besiktas at home in the Europa League on Thursday, having failed to win in their opening three group games. Hassan remains hopeful of qualifying with five matches still to play.
“We still have five games to go. A win over Besiktas would give us hope and confidence,” he said. “If we win the rest of the games or get as many points as possible, we definitely hope we can qualify for the next stage.”
Hassan insisted the Europa League campaign has not been a disappointment, despite the poor results so far.
“We have a good side and management but the results have cost us. We are struggling a bit now. But we can improve and we’ll try to play in the best way,” he added.
