Nadir Ciftci knows what will help him be a better player for Celtic

NADIR CIFTCI has experienced the big-time Champions League atmosphere at Celtic Park from the stands.

Now he’s dreaming of hearing the roar of the crowd as a player.

The ex-Dundee United striker is desperate to help the Hoops get a step closer to the group stage by finishing off Icelandic side, Stjarnan, on Wednesday.

Before then he has a disciplinary hearing at Hampden tomorrow to answer allegations of biting Dundee’s Jim McAllister.

Ciftci said: “I was at Celtic Park with my agent, Pierre van Hooijdonk for a big European night against AC Milan two years ago. The atmosphere was amazing.

“So I know how big those nights are for the club, and I know what it means for the fans.”

The 23-year-old isn’t someone short of confidence, but he believes playing in front of a vociferous support can only help him.

He started the midweek 2-0 win over the Icelandic side and revelled in the atmosphere.

“It’s definitely a different experience at Celtic Park, depending on the colour of the jersey you’re wearing,” Ciftci continued.

“With these fans behind you, it gives a different buzz and gives you more confidence.

“It was completely different for me to play for Celtic rather than with the away team.

“With the manager and the players around me, I think I can move to the next level.”

Breaking down deep-lying defences is something Ciftci will have to get used to. There aren’t many teams prepared to visit Celtic Park and go on the offensive.

The champions found Stjarnan hard to break down early on, but Ciftci believes there will be more space in Wednesday’s return.

He said: “It’s not easy if they park the bus and you have to break them down.

“But when Dedryck Boyata’s goal went in I knew we would get more.

“If Stjarnan want to go through, they will have to come out more at home. So hopefully we can hit them again and seal the tie.”