Celtic defender Christopher Jullien has sent a message of gratitude to the Hoops supporters after making his comeback from injury against Raith Rovers.
Jullien was injured last December against Dundee United. There have been hopes, false starts and delays along the way, but the rousing reception he got at Celtic Park on Sunday spoke volumes. Beloved by the Celtic faithful, the question of when we’d see Jullien back sometimes turned to if we’d see Jullien back.
Thankfully, though, he was able to make an appearance in Celtic’s 4-0 win against the Kirkcaldy side. Jullien played 16 minutes, coming on for Cameron Carter-Vickers deep into the second half.
Jullien said today on Twitter: “Woah this was one if the best feelings… Thank you all for that moment and all the good vibes during all that time.”
And quite a moment it was. All of Celtic Park gave Jullien a hero’s welcome as he made it onto the field of play. And while there was a bit of understandable rust, the Frenchman eventually settled in as Celtic rode out a comfortable victory.
Tall, commanding and a threat from set-pieces, he gives Ange Postecoglou another excellent option in defence. The phrase “like a new signing” is well overused, but on this occasion, it’s about merited. Charismatic and surely a dressing room favourite still, despite his absence, the former Toulouse player will be delighted to return to contention for the Hoops.
Return of Chris Jullien was a Celtic highlight from Scottish Cup triumph
It’s impossible not to root for the guy. Ever since arriving at Celtic, he’s embraced the fans consistently and thoroughly. He’s scored hugely important goals, not least against Rangers and Lazio, and has a Treble to his name.
It couldn’t really have gone better for him in his first campaign. The second, clearly, not so much.
Yes, he’s missed a lot of this season, but if Jullien can get back into form, he provides some real options for Ange Postecoglou. The Celtic boss could utilise a back 3, as he did with Australia. Or, at the very least, there’s considerable competition for Carter-Vickers and Starfelt in central defence.
Ange has signed a bunch of great characters to revive Celtic’s fortunes. From the shy but lovable Kyogo to cheeky Josip Juranovic, deceeent Joe Hart and plenty more.
Jullien, with his extroverted personality and passion for Celtic should assuredly fit right in.
Whatever his future holds here, it’s fantastic to see him back. Here’s hoping he’s able to create some more memories in the Green and White.
Read more: “I don’t think I’d be saying no”; Celtic’s Matt O’Riley discusses his potential Denmark future
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