KASPER THE NOT SO FRIENDLY HOST

Dane declares Celts need Parkhead at ’rocking’ best to go far in Europa as fans press pause on mute button

- BY MICHAEL GANNON

KASPER SCHMEICHEL insists there's nothing quite like the Celtic Park atmosphere.

And right up until half past nine last night, it looked more than likely it was going to be nowt like a Celtic Park atmosphere.

Schmeichel is not a man to get involved in the off-the-field drama at Parkhead.

But he does know that having the punters back on side - even for the short term - is a major boost for this evening's Braga tie.

The great Dane is well aware of what a fully fired-up arena can bring... and what it does to European opposition.

The wall of noise in Glasgow's east end has become a bit of cliché over the years, yet it doesn't make it any less true.

‘A succession of away players, coaches and staff have been caught on camera being taken aback by the racket before speaking about the atmosphere in glowing terms, regardless of the results.

That is why Schmeichel will be thrilled it'll be business as usual after fan groups called off plans for another silent protest against the board.

He said: “There's nothing quite like this here. It doesn't really matter where I've played. I haven't really played in atmospheres that are much better than what we generate in here.

“It exceeded my expectations. I hadn't been in the stadium for a Champions League game or for a European night but I'd watched them on TV.

“Through speaking to people - players and coaches who have been here - you hear about them. But once youre actually in there and can practically not hear yourself think, you realise it’s special. If you can't love those experiences, youre in the wrong sport.