Callum Osmand makes emotional admission after inspiring Celtic to European victory
Callum Osmand has expressed his delight after producing a match-winning cameo in the Hoops’ Europa League victory over Besiktas at Celtic Park.
Martin O’Neill’s side finally secured their first points of the League Phase, with the 20-year-old playing a decisive role after being introduced from the bench on the hour mark.
Osmand made an immediate impact, scoring a stunning goal with his first touch before turning provider with a perfectly weighted pass for Camilo Duran.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Osmand praised his teammates’ efforts against the Turkish side.
He said: “The first half was so strong. This is a great team we’re playing against, so to keep it secure, they did really well.
“Obviously, Camilo done amazing. That’s why you see he’s such a poacher. He scores amazing ones and then poaching ones as well, so well done to him again.”
Reflecting on Celtic’s cautious start, he continued: “I think a lot of start games like that. It’s tough. There’s obviously nerves, and you’re trying to get into the game.
“But yeah, I thought the team dug in really well at the start. We stayed strong, and then we got our rewards, finally.”
Osmand also admitted his first European goal caught him by surprise after Callum McGregor picked him out.
He explained: “It caught me off guard. As soon as Cal went, I knew he was gonna [play it], because he’s good at that reverse. It caught me really off guard, but I’m so glad. I caught it really nice.”
The youngster revealed he had been desperate to make an impression while watching proceedings unfold from the substitutes’ bench.
He added: “To be honest, you get so up for it. In my head, I’m all jittery, and I just want to come on and do something, so that’s what I try and do: come on and make something happen. I’m so happy with tonight.”
Celtic were forced to show resilience after Orkan Kokcu’s equaliser threatened to derail their hopes of a first European victory this season.
Osmand admitted the setback brought back memories of the defeat to Celta Vigo but was delighted with the response.
He said: “It felt like Celta Vigo, where they score worldies and it takes it out of you, but we done really well to get ourselves back up and go and win the game.
“This is what we try and do. It’s amazing, the place was rocking here at the end. We need to push on and keep bringing these sorts of performances and doing well. We have it in us, we’ve just got to keep doing it.”
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