Elena: My holiday got Hoops’ OK

ELENA SADIKU has hit back at criticism over her preseason absence - insisting she had Celtic's full blessing to extend her summer break.

- BY ALISON McCONNELL

The Hoops boss sparked questions after taking up a punditry role on Swedish TV during the Women's Euros in Switzerland, while her squad returned to Lennoxtown to begin preparations for the season.

But Sadiku revealed the time off was agreed in advance to help her recharge after a gruelling first season in charge - and insists her focus on rebuilding the squad never wavered.

The German gaffer said: "The plan was that I was going to have a week longer vacation because of my recovery from last season.