Fraser Forster returned to Glasgow this afternoon with Antonio Conte’s Tottenham Hotspur side to take on Giovanni van Bronkhorst and his new-look Ibrox squad. The big stopper signed on the dotted line for Daniel Levy after he became a free agent this summer, as his mammoth financial contract with Southampton finally came to an end.
Forster enjoyed two very successful spells at Celtic Park – both under Neil Lennon. Forster first arrived at Parkhead during the Northern Irishman’s first tenure and went on to become a crucial cog in the wheel after a mixed start to life in the no.1 spot. He went from strength to strength during that period and played a major role in the famous defeat of FC Barcelona in the Champions League back in 2012.
This subsequently saw interest in the giant Englishman hit fever pitch and he joined the St Mary’s outfit in the summer transfer window of 2014. Celtic did make a significant profit from an initial £2 million outlay, as we managed to bring in £10 million from his sale; making a cool £8 million or so from his move.
After falling out of favour following the arrival of Ralph Hassenhuttl on the South Coast, Forster found himself third choice behind Angus Gunn and Alex McCarthy, despite being on the largest wage at the club at the time. It was this that was the catalyst for Neil Lennon to bring him back up the road in 2019 with fellow teammate, Moi Elyonoussi.
The two were instrumental that season, but I’m particular Forster who virtually won the League Cup trophy that December on his own, thwarting countless attacks and saving and Alfredo Morelos penalty to ensure Chris Jullien’s set-piece goal kept the trophy in the green and white colours of the Hoops.
Forster was brought on as a sub today at Ibrox and the reception was fairly hostile considering his allegiances and past transgressions against the tribute act. According to Scottish Sun, Fraser was booed as he made his way onto the park and managed to even crack a smile as he replaced French captain LIoris.
He even managed to win a trophy on the Ibrox turf, as both teams played for the Walter Tull Memorial Cup. Even when he’s gone, he is still being a thorn in their side – gotta love it from La Gran Muralla!
Paul Gillespie
READ THIS…Celtic 2-0 Norwich City – Watch the Goals plus all post match reaction from both clubs
David Potter’s new book, Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style is out now, and you can order from Celtic Star Books – link below – or pick up a copy from the official Celtic Stores…
