Fraser Forster has described his decision to leave Southampton for a return to Celtic as the ‘easiest’ he has ever had to make.
The goalkeeper tied up a season-long loan move to the Scottish champions last week, and he has since made his debut for the club.
Celtic defeated Hearts 3-1 at home on Sunday, and although Forster saved a penalty from Conor Washington, the striker prodded the rebound into the back of the net.
Five years after leaving the Hoops for Southampton, the 31-year-old is evidently happy to be back and expressed just how simple a decision it was for him to depart St Mary’s Stadium.
As quoted by Brinkwire, he said:
Coming back was the easiest decision I have ever made. When I heard of Celtic’s interest, I said, ‘Yes, I want to go, I want to go’. The two clubs got it sorted and it was an absolute no-brainer for me.
I couldn’t wait to get in the car and get up to Scotland. I drove all the way from Southampton.
It’s lovely, it feels so natural. Everywhere you go, you just I feel like I have come home. I am buzzing.
Read Southampton’s verdict
It’s good to see that Forster is happy to be back into the swing of things. Hopefully, he can do well enough during his loan spell to convince Celtic that a permanent move is a good step for them.
Forster made only one appearance last season and is obviously surplus to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s requirements. Angus Gunn and Alex McCarthy are more consistent goalkeepers and are more than good enough for Saints this season.
The emotional attachment that Forster has with Celtic is clear; the vast majority of their fans love him, and he will undoubtedly benefit from their support throughout the campaign.
From a more cynical, pragmatic view, though, this deal is more pleasing because of the economic side of things. It’s nice to know that we have finally shifted the goalkeeper for the time being, and at least part of his wages will be covered by another team.
