KASPER SCHMEICHEL didn’t hesitate even for a heartbeat when he was asked about his ambitions at Celtic.
“Trophies,” fired back the 37-year-old legendary Denark international keeper who watched his new side in action in their 4-0 win over DC United in Washington in the early hours of this morning.
Schmeichel, who penned a one-year deal with a 12-month option after quitting Anderlecht at the end of his contract, is aiming to add to his silverware collection during his time at Parkhead.
The towering shotstopper won the English FA Cup under Brendan Rodgers at Leicester City in 2021 to add to his Premier League medal at the Midlands club five years earlier.
ONE IN THE EYE…Kasper Schmeichel pauses for a moment during the interview in Washington.
Schmeichel gave his first interview to Celtic TV in the aftermath of the victory after arriving in the American capital just hours before kick-off.
Looking forward to launching a new career with the Hoops, the new Bhoy has his focus firmly on success and, quizzed about what he hopes to achieve in Scotland, answered: “Trophies.”
Emphasising the target, he added: “Trophies, trophies. That’s what football is about. It’s about winning.
“Coming to a club with such a rich history of winning and a culture of draws aren’t enough. That’s the one thing I really love about this club.
“That’s the mentality – to win every competition you’re in. I can’t wait.
“It’s been a whirlwind. I just want to get back to playing football now.”
Schmeichel is already aware of the enormity and the worldwide appeal of his new club as he continued: “I’m not even surprised with the amount of supporters. I know the size of Celtic.
“I’ve come off holiday and there were Celtic fans at the hotel I was staying at. Even as I flew, there were Celtic fans on the plane. It’s incredible to see, but it just goes to show the size of the club.”
JOLLY GREEN GIANT…Kasper Schmeichel is delighted to be at Celtic. Images courtesy Celtic TV.
Speaking about his close relationship with ex-Manchester City team-mate Joe Hart, the former England No.1 who retired after three years and seven trophies at the Hoops, Schmeichel added: “I’ve spoken to Joe many times during the time he was here, leading up to his retirement.
“He only had good things to say. I started following Celtic a lot closer when he joined and saw the admiration the fans had for him.
“He got an incredible send-off and it was fully deserved. I have big shoes to fill.”
Scott Bain and new recruit Viljami Sinisalo shared the goalkeeping duties in Washington with appearances in each half.
However, it is unclear if Rodgers will hand Schmeichel his debut against his former City team in North Carolina on Wednesday or Chelsea on Saturday.
Either way, the 105 times-capped Danish icon is rarin’ to go!
