Celtic hero Henrik Larsson’s contribution during an incredible seven-year spell in Glasgow’s east end has earned him a permanent place in the hearts of every Hoops supporter.
The former Sweden international needs no introduction, with 242 goals in 315 matches just the tip of the iceberg regarding his exploits.
Racing out in front, Larsson is also Celtic’s all-time top European goalscorer. Evoking memories of the Road to Seville, his incredible knack for finding the target made anything feel possible as the Bhoys came a whisker away from claiming the UEFA Cup in 2003.
Despite being sought after around Europe, the fact he chose to stay in Glasgow for so many years was a mark of his loyalty, something that is becoming an increasing rarity in modern football.
Recounting his time spent with Larsson, former teammate Paul Lambert has given an insight into why he was such a joy to play with at Celtic.
Paul Lambert on Henrik Larsson’s ‘incredible’ time at Celtic
Speaking to World Football Index, Lambert elaborated on what set Larsson ‘apart’ from the rest during his time at the club, touching on the ‘incredible understanding’ the duo had on the pitch for Celtic.
He stated: “Henrik and I had an incredible understanding on the pitch. I always felt that if he was playing, there was a 99.9% chance he’d score—similar to how I felt with Riedle and Stéphane Chapuisat.
“Those three were the kind of strikers where, if you gave them an opportunity, they’d finish it. Henrik was like that, even during the 10-in-a-row season.
“I’d always think, ‘This guy will score.’ We had a great telepathy on the pitch, and we were really close off the pitch as well. You have to put him right up there with Riedle and Chapuisat—he was a phenomenal striker.
“But what set Henrik apart was that — even if you take away his goals — his work rate, his enthusiasm, and his hunger for the game were what really stood out.
“That’s what top players have in abundance. People often assume the goals just come naturally, but it’s the relentless hard work behind the scenes, and Henrik had that in spades.”
Henrik Larsson’s superb legacy at Celtic
Few players have had the legacy Larsson continues to warrant at Celtic Park, there are sometimes anomalies that come to the fore that you just need to appreciate while they are there.
Even looking at recent prominent strikers at the Bhoys, they are always labelled in order according to the ‘best since Larsson’, which is something that doesn’t happen with other players.
With Larsson now enjoying a quieter existence after several spells in the dugout and various coaching roles, the King of Kings will always special to Celtic supporters.
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