‘I wanted to come back off’ – Why Adam Idah hoped to be subbed during Celtic vs Rangers debut

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Adam Idah has always known how frenetic the Glasgow derby can be.

However the Celtic striker had no idea how he would feel after making his debut in the fixture last season as a loanee from Norwich City.

The speed of the rivalry and the action on the pitch shocked the Irishman on his bow at Ibrox in the enthralling 3-3 draw back in April.

And Idah admits he hoped to come OFF after only just coming on as a substitute as he feared the atmosphere and intensity would get to him.

A goal in the stalemate would settle his nerves, though, and since that day – after Celtic won the league title at a canter, in the end – Idah has become more comfortable with the fixture.

The striker, who has hit eight goals in 22 outings since he arrived permanently in the summer, now hopes to be involved in the Premier Sports Cup Final later today.

And he has described derby day as “different class” despite his early worries.

“I think the biggest shock was probably the intensity,” he said.

Adam Idah ‘couldn’t breathe’ on his Celtic vs Rangers debut at Ibrox

“I remember the one at their place, I remember after about 10 minutes I wanted to come back off. I couldn’t breathe.

“I scored the goal. It was a great day. It’s a huge game. I think it’s watched all over the world. It’s massive.

“When you’re playing in it, you can tell. You’re playing these games. It’s a different class. The atmosphere is unbelievable. It’s a big day for everyone.”

The attacker may have netted eight times this term but the player has not been particularly satisfied with his return.

Idah says he has not been happy with his season so far

Idah “wasn’t pleased” with how his Celtic season has gone thus far.

The 23-year-old has had to settle for a spot on the bench more often than not but that is a side of his career he claims to be used to by now.

He has another striker ahead of him in the pecking order still and former Celtic hitman John Hartson has urged Idah to learn from the “world class” Kyogo.