Europe decisive in Forster´s Celtic switch

Goalkeeper Fraser Forster cited the opportunity of European football as ‘too good to turn down’ in deciding his move to Celtic.

The 24-year-old, who had been on loan at Celtic from Newcastle for the last two seasons, rejected interest from elsewhere to sign a four-year deal at Celtic Park.

And Forster is delighted at the prospect of regular first-team action, as well as the chance to appear in the UEFA Champions League.

“Celtic as a football club speaks for itself,” he said.

“We have got the chance to play in Europe again which I’m delighted about. With the size of the club and the European chance, it was too good to turn down.

“Not many keepers get the chance to play in Europe.

“We did well last season as a squad so there was a bit of interest elsewhere but I always knew I would be back here.

“I think this is the right move at this point. I’ve progressed a lot in the last few years, it’s important I keep doing that and keep playing first-team football.”

Forster was not put off by liquidated Old Firm rivals Rangers’ impending absence from the Scottish Premier League next season after it was announced 10 SPL clubs had voted against the newco’s application to re-join the league.

“Obviously the Old Firm games were big games but every game is a challenge in its own way. That, combined with Europe, should make for a good season,” he said.

“They were a big part of the SPL. But you have just got to look at the positives and move on.”