Fraser Forster relishing trip to 'intimidating' Celtic Park

Monday 17 Nov 2014
Fraser Forster is looking to add to his two England caps
Fraser Forster is looking forward to a first return to Celtic Park since his move to Southampton – and says England can expect an intimidating atmosphere.

The Three Lions travel to Glasgow to take on an in-form Scotland side who are currently level on points with world champions Germany in European Qualifying Group D. 

England arrive north of the border with a 100 per cent record this season, but Forster believes that the Tartan Army can become an extra man for the home side. 

Scotland v England

Vauxhall International Challenge Match
8pm, Tuesday 18 November
Celtic Park, Glasgow
Live on ITV

Forster spent four years at Celtic, until he transferred to the Saints at the start of this season, and with Roy Hodgson resting first-choice keeper Joe Hart for the game, he hopes he will get a chance to win his third cap at his former home. 

“When you go up there you see how big a club it is, it’s a fantastic stadium,” Forster told TheFA.com during at chat at the England team hotel. 

“They have fans who sing for 90 minutes non-stop, so the atmosphere is brilliant. It is one that can intimidate teams if they aren’t used to it. 

"The fans can be like a 12th man, I know it’s a cliche, but it really does give the home team a lift.” 

He continued: “It will be good to see people again, and the first time I’ve been back. 

Fraser Forster

Fraser Forster made his England debut in November 2013

“If I’m fortunate to play, it will be a great game to be involved in. With Joe going home, it gives a chance to Ben [Foster] and me. 

 “Traditionally, this is one of the biggest games you can play in for England so it’s something to look forward to. 

“And for me it has the added bonus of being at Celtic Park, so would be good one to go back for.” 

During his time as a Bhoy, the 26-year-old was involved in a magical night at Celtic Park as the Hoops sent Spanish giants Barcelona packing. 

It was not until the 90th minute of the Champions League group game two years ago that world star Lionel Messi finally breached Forster’s defence. 

By that time Celtic were already two goals to the good and they held on for a famous 2-1 win. 

“The Barcelona game is definitely one that stands out for me,” recalled the Hexham-born stopper. 

“It was a fantastic achievement for us as a club and the squad we had. The night was brilliant and to see it through, absorb so much pressure throughout the game was great. 

“It was one of those games where everything went for us, it was Celtic’s 125th birthday that day as well, so it was set up nicely for us to win.” 

Fraser Forster

Fraser Forster denies Lionel Messi at Celtic Park

The last time England played Scotland was at Wembley in August 2013, and though Forster missed out on a place in the squad, he remembers being in Glasgow at the time. 

England won that game 3-2, thanks to a winner from debutant Rickie Lambert, but Forster, an imposing figure at 6ft 7in, believes Scotland have the players to get their own back when the ‘Auld Enemy’ meet for the 112th time on Tuesday night. 

“There’s always been a big rivalry, it’s a massive game, and whenever there is a game like that it’s talked about in the weeks leading up to it. 

“It’s built up, same as an old firm game. They are really passionate about their football and this is one of the big games.” 

He added: “Scott Brown is a good player. Captain, leads by example, breaks up the play, so he’ll be tough to play against. 

“But they have a number of very good players. Shaun Maloney, who I’ve played with, has fantastic quality and has shown that playing in the Premier League. Charlie Mulgrew has got a very good left foot, so he’ll be one we have to deal with, too. 

“They have plenty of quality within the squad and are on a good run this season so it will be a tough game but one we are really excited about.”

FATV Meets Fraser Forster

 


By Jamie Bradbury FA Editor at the England hotel