One of Celtic’s very first Japanese imports was the world-famous Shunsuke Nakamura.
A Gordon Strachan signing back in 2005, it is hard to believe that at the time we had secured his services from Reggina for a paltry £2.5m [BBC].
The Japanese superstar was reportedly being chased by some of Europe’s top names, but he eventually decided to snub the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Parma to don the famous green and white hoops.
And what a signing he turned out to be. Over three seasons, Nakamura made 145 appearances for Celtic, scoring 31 goals and creating 36. But not only was Shunsuke a master of the dead ball, but he could also strike from distance.
And out of all his goals, the one that drew this response from Joe Hart has to go down as one of the attacking midfielder’s best-ever career goals.
“You don’t save them. Van Der Sar had a huge frame and knew how to move around the goal. That’s right in the corner, that’s just a great goal. The atmosphere must have been ridiculous.” the Bhoys goalkeeper exclaimed after being surprised by how far out Nakamura struck the free-kick from. You can see the video embedded above or via this link to the official club YouTube account.
What is Nakamura’s best-ever Celtic goal?
We all remember that infamous goal against Rangers at Celtic Park don’t we? A 30-yard screamer that left Stefan Klos reaching for his curtains. Or was it the title-winning free kick at Rugby Park against Kilmarnock?
His free-kick against Manchester United in the Champions League at Old Trafford was also incredible and is right up there. There are so many to choose from. It is a discussion that will keep Celtic fans talking for decades to come.
Nakamura was a genuine one-of-a-kind player and is rightly recognised by the fans as one of the icons of the club. Joe Hart is learning why!
In other news, Celtic boss Ange’s mentoring advice shows why he’s so well respected in football.
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