Balde content to wait at Celtic

Balde has been turning out for the reserve side at Celtic

Celtic's Bobo Balde is focusing on a return to full fitness and is not unhappy sitting on the sidelines.

The defender has made just one CIS Cup appearance this season after recovering from a stomach muscle injury.

"Playing now is not my main focus because I have to get my fitness back and I'm worrying about nothing else," said the 31-year-old.

"I'm delighted to see the team doing well and I'm certainly not waiting for them to fail to get my place back."

Balde played the full 90 minutes in the cup win over St Mirren on 19 September but has been an unused substitute in the SPL ever since.

Reports have linked former manager Martin O'Neill with an interest in taking Balde to Aston Villa.

But Balde said: "I know nothing about Aston Villa and I'm not even thinking about that.

"I have three years left on my contract, which is okay as I've been away for six months after having an operation, but I'm now on my way back.

I'm a part of that even if I'm not on the pitch Bobo Balde

"I had a good time working for Martin but I have my contract here and I have too much respect for the club to speak about O'Neill as he's no longer in charge."

Stephen McManus and Gary Caldwell have formed a formidable partnership in central defence, making it hard for Balde to force his way back into the running.

"I want the team to keep winning for as long as possible because I want the club to get as high as they can in Europe and that's why I signed a long contract," he added.

"It's not frustrating as I helped the team win the league last season and helped set them up for the Champions League.

"I knew when I was helping the club last season I would need to get an operation and be out for the long term.

"So for me it's not a problem if I'm not out on the pitch as I'm still delighted to be on board with this club.

"I've been here for five years and I'm a part of that even if I'm not on the pitch."