Celtic have been linked with Fraser Forster in every transfer window in living memory since his departure from Paradise to the south coast of England. However, despite the various spells he has taken at Celtic Park – three loans and a permanent move – the giant goalie has played down links of a fifth return to Celtic Park, stating his love for Southampton at the moment.
Having played 168 league games for the club, and 236 overall, Forster is no stranger to the East End of Glasgow; however, given the opportunities on show for the big man in the more rewarding English Premier League, he sees no reason to come back to Celtic Park at the moment.
Speaking to HampshireLive, Forster was complimentary as ever of the Hoops. “I’ve obviously had to wait a while, but I am absolutely loving it at Southampton. It was tough at times when you are not making matchday squads, it was tough, but I always worked hard and believed in my ability and when the opportunity came up for me to go to Celtic and play, that was perfect for me really.
Forster became a cult hero at Celtic – no times more so than when he thwarted Alfredo Morelos multiple times in the 2019 League Cup final at Hampden, saving a penalty from the Colombian as his dire record against the Bhoys’ rolled over to 13 games; before Christopher Jullien stole a win at the end, crowning Forster as Man Of The Match as he took his winners medal.
“It was easy for me to go back there because it was another club I have a fantastic relationship with, a fantastic relationship with the fans, so it was easy for me to go back. A lot of the staff were the same from when I was there the first time, so it was like I never left really. It was fantastic for me, it was a great year and I’ve have had some great games up there and it was great for me to go up there and play and remind people what I can do.
However, despite his heroics at Celtic Park, he is insistent that he loves Southampton; and sees no reason for a move up north just yet.
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As Southampton’s number one choice at the moment, he has forced his way back into Ralph Hasenhuttl’s plans; showing a very strong character by doing so.
“I obviously love Southampton a lot, and it is fantastic to be back playing and back at St Mary’s, and it will obviously better when the fans are back. There have been a lot of tough days along the road and there have been times where it has been hard to see light at the end of the tunnel, but you keep working hard and training hard, and hope that it comes together.
“I always tried to stay positive and work hard, and I am glad I am back here now and playing, it is something I wanted to do the whole time. I am glad I have got the opportunity now and I am trying to take it.”
