Celtic's Cameron Carter-Vickers has spoken about his feelings on the Glasgow derby and how he is looking forward to returning from an injury that has kept him out all season.
Speaking to Sports Empire Group, Carter-Vickers said:
"Growing up in Southend, I never thought I'd be part of a fixture like [Celtic vs Rangers]. You definitely feel there is a build-up and a tension that builds going into games. This is the biggest game of Scottish football. I've always been aware how big the club is. Growing up, I'd always watch the derby games and stuff like that, and when I signed, Ange [Postecoglou] was the manager. The way he spoke made me think that this was the place I wanted to go."
He also spoke about his first derby at Ibrox, which saw the defender score a goal to make it 2-1. He said:
"My first derby at Ibrox, I scored a goal to make it 2-1, and we ended up winning 2-1. Last season, played them in the League Cup final and won on penalties. That was enjoyable. "
Carter-Vickers says that he tries not to get carried away by the atmosphere, simply focusing on his football:
"As a player, I'm one who doesn't kind of get too caught up in the atmosphere, and doesn't hear too much of it. I know it's weird to say, but when I'm playing and on the pitch, it's all just noise. The way I see it, it's a game of football. I know it obviously means a lot, and there's a lot on the game, but it's 11 men vs 11 men on the same size pitch with the same size pitch you've played on since you were young. You've played thousands of games in football in your life, and although the occassions bigger, the game hasn't really changed."
The defender is excited to return to action:
"I'm quite simple in terms of goals and stuff, it's just to play, get back fit, play football and be part of a winning team. That's only really ever my aim."
Excitement around his return
Although it has sadly been confirmed that Carter-Vickers will miss the rest of the season, fans will be excited that we will get to see him under a brand new manager soon enough. He has always been a constant at Celtic and performs to the best of his ability.
Since his injury, Celtic have had to switch up centre-back pairings often, with Liam Scales, Dane Murray and Austin Trusty often occupying the role. Although these players have performed well this season, you simply can't replace Carter-Vickers.
The American is contracted to the Celts until 2029, so there is plenty of time left to enjoy him. He clearly enjoys playing in the Glasgow derby, and as things stand, he'll have plenty more to give in those massive games.
Carter-Vickers has often spoken about how much love he has for the Celtic fans. He has said in the past how he always felt welcome and had the support of Hoops fans from day one. He understands the stature that we have and represents the club very well.