SATURDAY’S Man of the Match Cristian Gamboa was delighted to at long last hear his name chanted by the Celtic support after waiting two years for it to happen.
And what was even nicer for the Costa Rican right back, who set up two goals for the Betfred Cup holders at Firhill, was that his wife Melissa, and sons, Felipe and Julian, were in among the Celtic support when it happened.
“I’ve been two years at the club and they hadn’t sung my name — so Saturday was really special, particularly as my family were here,” the full back today Celtic TV.
“I’ve been in the shadows, working hard, trying to get a chance and, at the weekend, me and my family got something back.
“Now I’ve got to keep going. This is the way I am. I will always keep going until the end.
“I’ve always tried to do my best and work hard. I may not have been getting game time but I’ve tried to keep myself on top.
“I’m happy as it’s a fantastic club. But, yes, my family and kids always helped me.
“On Monday it will be the same. I will keep working hard. I’ll be ready for the next game.”
Gamboa starred for Costa Rica at the World Cup. Indeed had he not been a Celtic player and we signed him after those performances in Russia, we’d have all been delighted at the move.
His success in Russia is all the more remarkable given the lack of game time he got at Celtic last season, when he was completely discarded after the defeat in Munich in the Champions League.
“I wanted to get to the World Cup and I managed to play three games with Costa Rica.
“That was my second World Cup, so I think the gaffer can trust me.
“I still have one year on my contract, so I just have to keep going. My future is here for one more year.
“I’m happy, my family is happy and my kids have enjoyed their time in Scotland.
“Playing for Celtic is one of the best clubs in my career.
“If I stay for one more year, I’m going to be happy to be here.”
Gamboa was delighted to be involved in the two second half goals that won the tie for Celtic after Thistle had stung the Hoops with a shock equaliser.
“It’s one thing the gaffer always asks of us. Go forward and try to help your team-mates by getting into a good position,’ Gamboa continued.
“It was nice to be involved firstly and in the second half I got some crosses in to try to help the team. It’s special for me.
“I came in with my confidence really high as I got the Rosenborg game as well. The gaffer can trust me 100 per cent.
“It’s been difficult but you need to be ready at this club. You can never complain. There is always someone at your back putting pressure on you.
“I’ve just kept going and worked hard to help the club.
“Last season was difficult for me but this season I feel like I’m doing the right things. Hopefully I can build on this game.
“At this kind of club, there’s always good competition around. You always need to put in hard work. Every game is a challenge, so you need to prove yourself every time. The manager has made this point to us.
“In the past two games, there was disappointment but on Saturday we got back on track, which is good for the club and the fans.”
Celtic’s next match is on Thursday in Lithuania in the less glamorous Europa League, the consequence of losing in Athens.
Beating FK Suduva though is crucial as European football is so important to Celtic, Gamboa believes.
“We need to play European football. For Scottish football and for Celtic, we need to be involved there.”
Most supporters will be thinking that Gamboa on Saturday earned the right to be involved himself. Wonder what Brendan thinks?
