Celtic goalkeeper Conor Hazard has revealed what a momentous day yesterday was for him and those he holds dear.
The 22-year-old Irishman saved two penalties in the shootout, and won a historic trophy for the club that he has actively followed since he was a child.
Speaking to the BBC, Hazard said: “It is a crazy day for myself, my family back home and for the football club.”
“Three weeks ago, I would never have pictured this today. I am just absolutely over the moon. I’ve been a Celtic fan my whole life and to get this opportunity, I’m delighted with it.”
The goalkeeper has had a memorable few weeks, making his European and Scottish Premiership debut before retaining the starting jersey for the Cup Final.
Explaining what Celtic means to him, Hazard said: “To play for such a worldwide club, we know what the fans expect and how much they drive us towards winning, it is an honour to play for them.
“I want to fully focus on each match, playing week in, week out and hopefully it will come together. It’s a momentous day for me and my family, my phone hasn’t stopped, I’m lost for words.”
A product of the Celtic academy, Hazard grew up in Downpatrick, travelling across on the ferry for games from a young age.
“The club means everything to me. We used to get up at 5am to get on the boat and we wouldn’t be home until three the next morning. It’s something I always dreamed of growing up.
“I have to thank all of the staff, and the manager for putting trust in me, which was a huge honour in such a big game. Thankfully, I was able to repay that trust with the two penalty saves.
“I have put a lot of work in and gone on loan spells waiting for my chance, the coaches have helped me a lot throughout the club.”
