Former Celtic midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has voiced his support for Kasper Schmeichel, insisting the experienced goalkeeper should reclaim the No.1 jersey ahead of Viljami Sinisalo…
Schmeichel missed Sunday’s thrilling 2-2 Glasgow Derby draw at Ibrox after falling ill, having also watched from the sidelines as Sinisalo impressed in the 1-0 Europa League win over Stuttgart earlier in the week.
Despite that result, Celtic were eliminated from Europe’s second tier club competition with a 4-2 aggregate defeat to the Bundesliga outfit.
The Danish veteran had faced scrutiny following the first leg against the Sebastian Hoeness’ side, where he was heavily criticised for his involvement in the goals conceded at Celtic Park.
Some supporters made their frustrations clear during the match by booing Schmeichel, a reaction that was condemned by former manager Neil Lennon and ex-skipper Petrov on TNT Sports, while current captain Callum McGregor also publicly backed the goalkeeper.
Sinisalo is now hoping to retain his place for tomorrow’s Premiership trip to Aberdeen at Pittodrie, before Celtic return to Ibrox four days later for a Scottish Cup quarter-final showdown against theRangers.
However, Petrov believes Schmeichel’s experience and quality make him the clear choice to start for the remainder of the season.
Speaking on Premier Sports’ Scottish Football Social Club, the former Hoops midfielder believes that the Dane has the mentality and track record to respond positively and re-establish himself as the club’s first-choice keeper.
Petrov said: “Both are good guys. Sinisalo has shown that he can deal with the pressure.
“But Schmeichel is still number one – he’s still really good. We know what kind of pressure they (goalkeepers) go under, even when the team is not doing well.”
“Kasper has the mentality to still play at the highest level and produce good performances. Now, Martin O’Neill has two good goalkeeping choices. But I’d play Schmeichel.”
It’s a bold claim to make from Petrov given that Schmeichel has continually cost Celtic this season and has been a major issue. Sinisalo is younger and clearly more alert which is why he should be given the nod for the remaining 10 league fixtures and hopefully three Scottish Cup matches.
Who would you rather start at Pittodrie tomorrow night and have the gloves for rest of the season? Let us know in the comments below.
Conor Spence
Definitely Sinasalo, Kasper is well past his best.
Sinisalo, Kaspers dodgy shoulder has cost Celtic goals this season, I have nothing personal against Kasper , but Celtic first and overall.hh
Kasper has become way to erratic within his own game, for my liking.
Sinisalo seems to have bought a calmer approach, for which both of our different CB partnerships have feed off imo?
Sinisalo for me, to remain in the keeper position, but still think Kasper might have a contract that says otherwise imo?