Rumours not a distraction for Witsel

Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel says he will not let speculation regarding his future affect him during Euro 2016.

The 27-year-old has spent the last four years playing for Zenit St Petersburg, but rumours have been rife that his time in Russia’s second city could be close to an end, with a number of sides in Italy thought to be interested in his services.

Juventus and AC Milan have both been tipped to move for him during the last two transfer windows while Roma are also now thought to have joined the race for his signature.

However, before any transfer is decided he is due to play for Belgium at the Euros, with De Rode Duivels currently12.00 to triumph in France.

Marc Wilmots’ men open their campaign against Italy on June 13 in Lyon, a game they are 2.30 to win, with the draw 3.10 and the Azzurri priced at 2.88.

A strong run of performances for Witsel would only further boost interest in him, but the midfielder is keen to avoid any distractions.

The former Benfica man says he is currently happy at Zenit and is unwilling to let the speculation over his future ruin his chances of helping Belgium claim European Championship glory.

“When I started playing, I never thought of ending up in Russia.” said Witsel in an interview withTuttomercatoweb. “At the beginning it was not easy but now I have adapted to the team, the city, the people and I feel comfortable.

“I have a contract with Zenit, in the summer there will be the Euros and I will be focused on this, then we’ll see what happens.”