Samaras wants Celtic stay

Greek striker ready to commit to SPL champions

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 26th June 2008

Georgios Samaras woe Celtic v Motherwell

Samaras: Happy at Celtic

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Georgios Samaras is unsure where his future lies but admits his preference would be to stay at Celtic.

The Greek striker spent the second half of last season on loan at Parkhead and Gordon Strachan is reportedly keen to secure him on a permanent basis this summer.

However, Celtic are also considering other options and there has been some interest in Samaras from clubs such as Lazio and Lecce.

Samaras accepts the matter is out of his hands but he insists that if it were his decision he would carry on playing for Celtic.

"Coming back to Celtic would still be my first choice," Samaras told This is London.

"I had a great time at the club and the loan deal we made in January worked out really well. It helped Celtic, but it helped me too.

"Everything was correct during that time. I think the supporters took to me and I feel really happy about that.

Waiting

"I also formed good relationships with my team-mates, the coaching staff and everyone else inside the club.

"I hope that can all continue in the future because there was so much support and love shown to me at Celtic last season.

"I'm waiting to see what will happen over the next days. At the moment, I don't know what my future holds and it is still relatively early in the summer."

Samaras' situation has been further complicated by the managerial upheaval at Manchester City, with new boss Mark Hughes yet to give the player a clear idea of where he fits into his plans.

However, Samaras is looking to leave the Premier League club in search of more regular football.

He said: "I think we need more time to see what Manchester City think and exactly what my price will be, but I want to leave."