Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou believes the pitch at Hampden Park has improved from the semi-final stages of the Scottish League Cup, speaking ahead of Sunday’s final against Rangers.
Postecoglou and Rangers counterpart Michael Beale were both critical of the surface following matches against Kilmarnock and Aberdeen in the last round.
The Scottish FA subsequently promised to address the issue, investing more time and money into getting things right before this weekend’s big kick-off.
Hampden pitch is improving ahead of Celtic vs Rangers
After visiting Hampden today for a media event, Postecoglou is feeling more comfortable about the situation.
He said [Daily Record]: “It’s improved, definitely, it had to. It’s in better condition, so hopefully it’s a chance for both teams to play at a good level.
“It’s not just that it stops us playing our football, it’s part of the event, it’s about promoting Scottish football and we want it to be perceived as good as possible. The pitch is going to be a central actor in the event and hopefully it will be a good one.”
Beale was also feeling more positive, stating: “There’s no one playing before us this weekend, it’s clear there’s been a lot of work done on the pitch as well. It’s going to be a big factor in the game and hopefully it will allow the game to be as good a spectacle as it can be.”
A smoother, more consistent pitch would be a benefit to both teams. From a Celtic perspective, it feels particularly important given the style of football the Bhoys play. Quick, intricate passing can come undone if players have to take an extra touch beyond the norm.
Thankfully it seems the measures the ground staff have taken are paying off, at least for kick-off. How it holds up deep into a match or, whisper it, into extra time may be another matter.
In other news, Hearts confirm bumper Celtic away support for Tynecastle cup clash.
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