PEACE IN THE VALLE

Barca Bhoy finding his feet after major culture shock

- MICHAEL GANNON

IT'S some culture shock going from Catalonia to getting clattered in the Scottish League Cup.

But Alex Valle reckons he's finally finding his feet at Celticand he's ready to make his mark.

It's been a dizzying first few weeks for the borrowed Barcelona full back. He was handed a debut against Falkirk and ended up face first in the dirt a couple of times in a brutal introduction to Scottish football.

He dusted himself down to impress after coming on in the second half in the Champions League drubbing in Dortmund and then looked the part in the last-gasp win in Dingwall.

Valle has been waiting for his big chance and with regular left back Greg Taylor injured for next week's showdown with Aberdeen, the Spanish kid is ready to slot in and stake his claim.

The 20-year-old revealed Taylor has been massive in helping him settle and he reckons the friendly rivalry can only benefit the team.

Valle said: "I don't know Greg's situation. I don't actually mind.

"I just try to work for myself, and if I have the opportunity to play, I will give my best every game. I don't mind if it's Aberdeen or if it's another team.

"For me, every weekend I try my best and that's it.

"It's a healthy competition.

"Greg has helped me a lot since I came here.