TOM ROGIC, the Celtic midfielder, has said he was not upset to be heckled by supporters of Central Coast Mariners when he returned to face his former club with Melbourne Victory, where he is on loan.

The 21-year-old said he did not choose to go to Melbourne ahead of returning to the New South Wales team because Mariners did not make a formal approach to the Parkhead club about securing his services.

The Australian internationalist, who has returned to his homeland to ensure he has time on the pitch leading up to the World Cup, set up a goal in his team's 3-1 win.

Rogic said: "I just want to get it straight - there was no formal offer. There was interest and I spoke to Phil Moss [the Mariners chairman] on the 'phone. He was very keen and I guess motivated to get me back but from the club's point of view there was an inquiry - but definitely no formal offer.

"It was never an option for me to consider, therefore it was never a decision between Melbourne Victory versus Central Coast. If the fans had known that, maybe things would have been different. But it's part of the game. I expected it, I have no issues with it. I didn't go there scared or nervous ,or walk away upset. I'm very happy with where I am now and things are going well.''

Rogic also confirmed that attempts by his former manager at Mariners, Graham Arnold, to take him on loan at Vegalta Sendai in Japan were blocked by Celtic.