Speaking to the Senegalese media this week, Nottingham Forest midfielder Cheikhou Kouyaté has a message for all his critics.
The 34-year-old was interviewed by the Senegalese Press Agency, and in quotes brought by Xibaaru, he insists he’s not hanging his boots up soon.
“I don’t know how many years I have left; God only knows. But for now, if I can squeeze in a few more years, time to have fun, so much the better.
“It doesn’t bother me that some people are pushing me to retire. I know what I am capable of. And if I have to talk about this question, it will be in front of football connoisseurs. Real football managers or fans know what I am capable of bringing to this Senegal team that I love so much.”
He arrived in England in 2014, when West Ham signed him. He then moved from the Hammers to Crystal Palace in 2018, and stayed in South London until 2022, when he joined Nottingham Forest.
Kouyaté had been a little more useful for the Reds in his first season at the City Ground, and is now struggling to get playing time, with just 339 minutes played in 13 appearances made this season.
His contract with Nottingham Forest expires at the end of the season, and judging by his quotes, he could even find another club to continue his career if the Tricky Trees do not offer him an extension.
