Celtic fan McAteer ready to run Ibrox gauntlet for Reds Legends
JASON McATEER lived the dream when he turned out at Celtic Park. Now he will look to mark his Ibrox bow with a win by helping Liverpool see off Rangers.
The 48-year-old will be part of the Reds Legends side that will face their Light Blues in a charity match on Saturday, October 12.
McAteer is a regular feature in these events and will line up alongside the likes of Jamie Carragher, Luis Garcia and Gers boss Steven Gerrard as the former Anfield captain pulls on his boots for the first time at Ibrox.
He said: “I think my time’s running out in this squad. They’re getting younger and fitter – and I’m getting older and slower.
“It’s always an honour to pull on the red jersey again.
“I’ve played at Celtic Park a couple of times, including the UEFA Cup game when Steve McManaman scored that worldie.
“It’s great just to sample the atmosphere and what it’s all about. It does have the reputation of being a bit mad – and it was magnificent.
“I know I’m sitting here at Ibrox – but I always wanted to play for Celtic. Obviously there’s the Irish connection, being a Celtic fan.
“Sorry! It’s just how I was brought up.
“Kenny was my hero from his Celtic and then Liverpool days. I was at Celtic for a charity game not so long ago, which was great.
“It will be nice to come to Ibrox, because I’ve never been here. I’ve just guaranteed myself a load of stick! Sorry, I have to be honest.”
Gers boss Gerrard will captain the Liverpool side at Ibrox. And McAteer reckons the home crowd are in for a treat next month.
He said: “He’s played in a couple of the games for us and, absolutely, he’s still got it. He keeps himself so fit. AC Milan recently, he took the game by the scruff of the neck when we went from 2-0 up to 2-2.
“He’s still got that winning mentality, he just didn’t want to lose. Them scoring two goals, he grew and scored the winner.
“When he gets out there on the pitch, he can win a game for you.”
Alfredo is so strong and when defenders get that tight to him that is when he is at his best, when he can roll people. He is a fantastic player