Pierre Van Hooijdonk Q&A
Welcome along to our second Q&A of the series. Today we welcome ex Celtic and Holland International, Pierre Van Hooijdonk. Pierre joined Celtic from NAC Breda with the club having not won a trophy for an incredible six years. The big man played his part, a big part, and changed all that.
Welcome along to “The Celtic Bhoys” Pierre and thanks very much for taking the time to do this.
When did you first hear about Celtic’s interest in you?
I didn’t hear anything about Celtic’s interest from NAC Breda until the day before I actually signed for Celtic. It happened that quick.
What did you already know about Celtic before you signed?
I knew that they’d already won the European Cup and I also knew they’d lost to Feyenoord in another European Cup Final. Also the famous Hoops was a well know jersey worldwide.
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When you arrived at Celtic, we hadn’t won a trophy for an Incredible six years. How important was that Cup Final goal you scored against Airdrie and what were your own memories of that special day?
Tommy Burns told me straight away what had happened against Raith Rovers and the six years without a trophy. To score that goal, what proved to be the only goal in that Final was an unbelievable experience for me. I was disappointed that I had to leave the pitch with a Hamstring injury. Returning to Celtic Park with the Cup was a memory I’ll never forget. Seeing grown Men crying as we hadn’t won anything for six years will stay with me forever.
You scored 52 goals in 84 appearances for Celtic. What are your top 3 goals and why?
Number one has to be the Cup Final goal for all the reasons above.
Number two is the header v Rangers in that 3-3 game at Ibrox.
Number three is a toss up between the last minute header v Motherwell after being left of the squad for the Old Firm game at Ibrox and my two for Holland away to Wales.
Finally Pierre, tell us about a favourite memory of Mr Celtic himself, Tommy Burns?
Tommy entered the Hotel where myself and my family had just checked in after signing. Tommy was joining us for dinner. He brought four books and three videos with him for me to learn everything about Celtic. He wanted me to become part of the Celtic family straight away.
Next: Celtic v Motherwell in the Cup Final
Pierre, it’s been a pleasure to have you on doing this. Thanks very much Sir and good luck to yourself and your family for the future. You played a big part in getting Celtic back on the trophy trail during a dire time in the 90’s. Thanks for taking part!! HH