Fraser Forster rejected Celtic because of one reason

It was Fraser Forster who rejected Celtic and not Southampton, and the reason behind him staying at St Mary’s Stadium has been revealed.

For a large period of time it was thought that Fraser Forster was the one who was very interested in returning to Celtic next season while Southampton were the ones who were playing hardball over the deal. But after news broke out yesterday that the English keeper will not be coming back to Parkhead, it has been revealed that it was he who rejected the chance to be a part of the club’s 10IAR campaign.

A club source has revealed that a deal was in place between the two sides for another season-long loan with an option to buy at the end of the season. But it was Forster who decided against the move after he was told this week that will be given a chance in Southampton’s first-team once again. And now he wants to stay and fight for his place at the club.

As reported by The Scottish Sun, the source said:

"“The club had agreed a season-long loan deal with Southampton with an option to buy.“This wasn’t about money – there was also every desire to push the boat out on personal terms for Fraser for an eventual permanent agreement.“He has an extremely lucrative contract at Southampton. Fraser had also indicated he was happy to stay at Celtic.“But the fact of the matter is Fraser’s had a conversation with the Southampton manager and from that he has decided not to return.“He feels he wants to fight for a place down there.“It’s a big disappointment. Fraser was magnificent last season and everyone wanted him to stay – but it’s his decision.“Everything was done to keep him. Now, though, it’s about moving on.”"

If the reports are indeed true then it is very disappointing for Celtic fans as they had expected Forster to return, at least for next season when the club have the opportunity to challenge for a historic tenth straight Scottish league title. On the contrary, most people would not have expected to see Mohamed Elyounoussi back at Parkhead but he rejected Real Betis in order to seal a return.

If being the first-team goalkeeper at Southampton seems like a bigger achievement to him then he is free to do that while The Hoops turn their attention to someone else.