The Stand Up For Champions

Marvin Compper enjoyed the fan experience in derby trip.

- Mark Henderson

MARVIN Compper admitted it was a special experience to cheer on Celtic from the away end during the recent derby victory at Ibrox.

Along with other members of the team not to feature in the fixture, whether through injury or selection, the German internationalist joined the Hoops faithful in the Broomloan Road Stand.

It was the first time the 32-year-old had sat amongst his own fans during his long football career and he enjoyed sampling a different perspective of events.

But he told the View that, while the atmosphere was fantastic, it paled into comparison to the noise generated in Paradise.

“I saw the game in December at Celtic Park and the atmosphere was better at our stadium, especially from our fans and in general throughout the whole game, despite it being a 0-0 draw,” he said in an exclusive interview.

“It felt more emotional and their stadium felt a bit too quiet for my taste compared to ours. It was a fantastic result for us.

“It was my first time being among the supporters of a team I have played for – it was interesting! Obviously because of the result and the way the game was won – being one man down and turning the game around – meant it was something special and a nice experience.

“I enjoyed it. I was quite calm. Being on the pitch is more intense than sitting in the stand. I had a chance to breathe it all in and have the experience from the other side.

“The atmosphere, especially from our side was fantastic. Obviously the result always plays into it but it was fantastic.”

The defender has starred for a number of top Bundesliga clubs in his homeland, including Borussia Monchengladbach, RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim, along with Fiorentina in Italy, but he insisted the passion of the Celtic supporters is on a different level.