Gigi Buffon reackons that two games against Juventus will be the biggest test of nerves that Fraser Forster has ever known.
The keeper was one of the biggest stars in Celtic group stage success with the double-header against Barcelona thrusting him into the limelight.
Forster was outstanding against the runaway Spanish league leaders with his reputation soaring after those matches.
World Cup winner Buffon noted those displays but feels that Forster’s big test arrives tomorrow night in front of a worldwide audience and sell-out crowd at Celtic Park.
“It will be two big games for Forster,” the Juve No. 1 stated. “We can see he has class and talent but the Champions League knockout stages are where your nerves are tested.
“When you are nervous then you are more likely to make a mistake as a goalkeeper. That is where the best thing to learn is to switch off and just play their game.
“I like what I have seen of him so far he can go and be one of the top five goalkeepers in Europe.
“Joe Hart is a very special keeper but if Forster keeps up this form he will be a real rival for him at international level. He is good enough to be the first choice at the World Cup.”
Buffon was in the Juve squad that faced Celtic in 2001 and believes that his side are ready to recapture past glories on the European stage.
He added: “Juventus are back at top level of European football again and we believe this could be our year.
“We showed in the two games against the current European Champions Chelsea that we should now be taken very seriously.
“We have got a squad full of quality and there is a real determination that this will not just be our season in Italy but also in Europe.
“We are taking Celtic very seriously for sure. Not just in beating Barcelona, but their performance in the group stages in general showed they are a very dangerous team.
“In Glasgow especially it will be very tough. All the Celtic supporters will be fired up but we are normally used to playing in such atmospheres.”
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One of the biggest compliments a keeper in scotland can get is being praised by somebody as well known and a world class keeper as buffon, that will be a massive confidence boost and a slap in the face of all scottish footballs critics, mon the hoops 2moro
Another Italian gobshite- if they can’t kick you off the park they’ll mess with your mind, ignore the greasy wanker Fraser!!!
Warning! Have him big man, Buffon by name Buffoon by nature.
“We are normally used to playing in such atmospheres.” Buffon.
I doubt it, big man! Mon the hoops!!!
Good shout. Barcelona had World Cup and European Champ winners all over the park. They brought 3 off the bench at Celtic Park! They regularly play in El Classico and many other high octane fixtures. I believe they were affected by the atmosphere.
The Italians may be in for a surprise. I hope we can take advantage.
Mon the Hoops.
it be like a stroll in the park for the hoops, easy peazy! hh!