Matt O'Riley is setting his sights on being called up for Denmark's World Cup squad and impressing in the Champions League with Celtic amid speculation over a move to Leicester.
The midfielder enjoyed a strong second half of the 2021/22 season at Parkhead after putting pen to paper on a four-and-a-half team in January this year. With 19 outings since arriving in Glasgow east end and three goals to boast about, the 21-year-old is looking to build on his early Celtic success.
His form earlier in the year has sparked interest from other clubs, with former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers boss reportedly eyeing up the midfielder as he looks to bolster his ranks in the English Premier League. But the Denmark U21 cap insists he is looking to kick on to help Ange Postecoglou' s side secure silverware after lifting two trophies last time out. However, it is not only club level glory the player is hoping for this year as he aims to prove himself as a worthy choice for his country ahead of the World Cup this winter.
O'Riley is yet to make a senior debut for Denmark but was called up to the U21 side for the first time in March. And with four good performances and a goal under his belt, he is now hoping to get his chance in Kasper Hjulmand's side.
Speaking to Sky Sports about his hopes for the upcoming season, O'Riley said: “Probably a few targets. First of all just to improve my level, naturally.
“I thought I did well last season but I still think I can do a lot more. This season I really want to kick on for myself and hopefully push for other things in terms of cups.
“(Getting into the Denmark squad) of course is a target. I want to be there so I’m going to do my best to do that. Champions League exposure helps a little bit with that. As long as I do my best, hopefully I’ve got a good chance.”
The midfielder also reckons that Celtic's pre-season preparations have stood and him and his teammates in good stead for the upcoming campaign. With Champions League group stage football guaranteed, the Hoops have had extra time to train as well as completely a healthy number of friendly fixtures this summer.
“Last pre season 90 per cent of the squad now weren’t actually in the team so even that, being together for that amount of time and preparing properly together, should help a lot. The environment is good right now, everyone is feeling good.” O'Riley added.
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