NADIR CIFTCI revealed he was “gutted” not to score a debut goal in the 1-0 friendly win over Real Sociedad at St Mirren Park.
The Turkish striker, who just completed his £1.5million move the previous day, set up his former Dundee United team-mate Gary Mackay-Steven for the 69th-minute winner only seconds after replacing Leigh Griffiths.
Moments later, Stuart Armstrong, another of Ciftci’s ex-colleagues, combined with Stefan Johansen for the Norwegian midfielder to present an opportunity for the new Bhoy.
However, the frontman’s drive was blocked by goalkeeper Geronimo Rulliand and the ball spun to safety.
The 23-year-old admiited: “I should have scored and I’m gutted about that.
“I actually thought I was a bit further away from the goal and I tried to chip the goalkeeper, but, hopefully next time, I’ll hit the back of the net.
“It was a good and tough game against a good side. We controlled the ball well and I think it was a great goal from Gary. I think he finished it well.
“It was a fantastic atmosphere, so thank you to all the fans who cheered for the team and for me, too.”
Dedryck Boyata, signed from Manchester City in the summer, was replaced by Efe Ambrose with six minutes remaining while ex-Manchester United right-back Saidy Janko came on for matchwinner Mackay-Steven in the 75th minute.
The victory over Davie Moyes’ La Liga side rounded off the Hoops’ pre-season preparations and they are now looking forward to Wednesday night’s Champions league qualifier against Stjarnan at Parkhead.
Ciftci believes Ronny Deila’s players are well prepared for the visit of the Icelandic side.
He added: “I can offer a lot physically and also a lot of goals. I can go past players, too, so I think I can add a lot to the team.
“This is the biggest stage and we want to play in the Champions League games. Stjarnan is the first game of that so, hopefully, we will get a good start and we can go on now and win the game.”
NEW BHOY IS GUTTED
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