SNS GroupMohamed Elyounoussi expected to get more space on the field for Norway as a result of Erling Haaland occupying defenders but his wish has not materialised yet.
The former Celtic winger does not expect Scotland to focus too much on Norway’s prolific striker and neglect their responsibility to stopping the likes of him and Martin Odegaard.
“I’m sure Scotland will not make that mistake, they will focus on other players as well,” Elyounoussi said ahead of Saturday’s Euro 2024 qualifier in Oslo.
“Yes, he has scored a lot of goals and has the attention around him. I thought it was going to be like that, we would maybe have more space but it hasn’t been like that so far.
“He takes attention obviously and no matter what he always creates chances for himself, but I don’t think it makes any difference for the other boys, we are always giving 100 per cent no matter what.”
Elyounoussi has also shared a dressing room with several players in the Scotland squad including Southampton team-mate Stuart Armstrong. Another Saints player, Che Adams, is missing through injury.
The wide player will also be reunited with Callum McGregor and he is not surprised to see the midfielder go from strength to strength since succeeding Scott Brown as Celtic captain.
“Cal is a leader,” said Elyounoussi, who spent the best part of two seasons on loan at Celtic Park.
“I remember him as a good team-mate, a good guy. I really got along with him and we had a nice connection on the left side with him and Greg Taylor.
“He has been important for the club after Broony left and he has also been important for the national team as well, that’s why he plays so many games.
“I am looking forward to seeing him again and some of the other boys as well.”
It was announced earlier this week that the 28-year-old would leave Southampton when his contract expires this summer after the club were relegated from the Premier League.
“Right now I am just focusing on the two games we have for Norway,” Elyounoussi said.
“After I will take a break and look at options. There are some already but I am going to wait until the games are finished.
“It will depend on the whole package in terms of where and the contract situation, so it’s going to be interesting to see where I land.”
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