European nights at Celtic Park always have that ability to capture the imagination of some of the world’s best players.
Players like Lionel Messi, Xavi and Paolo Maldini have all waxed lyrical about the atmosphere in Paradise and, here, we have another legend of the game speaking about his experience playing in one of those huge European games against Celtic in the east end of Glasgow.
Former Manchester United striker, Andy Cole, was recounting the time he faced Martin O’Neill’s men in the UEFA Cup in 2002 as part of Graeme Souness’ Blackburn Rovers team at Parkhead. Celtic ran out 1-0 winners and Cole was blown away by the atmosphere created by the Hoops support.
But Cole also admitted that he has been a fan of the club even before that match and told how watching legendary fullback, Danny McGrain, kickstarted his love affair with the club.
Cole said [Daily Record], “I have nothing but fond memories of playing in Scotland.
“My only game there of any magnitude was at Celtic Park for Blackburn in that UEFA Cup tie. Sir Alex Ferguson took us all up to Aberdeen for a friendly and I played in a testimonial at Celtic Park as well.
“But the atmosphere that night in Glasgow against Martin O’Neill’s side was absolutely electric and I still remember just how much I enjoyed it.
“Playing at Celtic Park was something that I always wanted to do. I’m glad I managed to do that and it was absolutely brilliant. That Celtic side was impressive. They had some top-quality players so I wasn’t surprised at how good they were.
“I do like Celtic. I’m a fan and always have been. It started with Danny McGrain who I loved as a full-back then it was Paul McStay who I loved as well. Celtic just kind of stuck with me, maybe it’s also the strip which I’ve always liked.
“I promise myself every year that I’m going to come up to watch an Old Firm game as I’d love that but as yet it hasn’t happened. Everyone keeps telling me about the atmosphere when Celtic play Rangers so that’s on my bucket list.”
The one thing that always impresses me about our club and our supporters is how we manage to capture the imagination of players who have played at huge clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United.
To play in iconic stadiums like Old Trafford and the Nou Camp week in, week out must be something special in itself. But somehow, Celtic Park always seems to leave that mark on players that experience the atmosphere our brilliant support generates.
We have more nights like that to look forward to next season as the Champions League awaits us again. Let’s hope it’s our football and not just the atmosphere that impresses the next lot of Europe’s top stars when they come to visit Glasgow.
In other news, Republic of Ireland legend explains why Mikey Johnston will get a chance at Celtic
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