Footie here is a Pole lot better – Zig
76 Sunday Mail
Ziggy Gordon reckons it was a no-brainer to stay in Poland after the hero-worship he got from fans on the continent.
Gordon, 24, signed for second- tier side Pogon Siedlce in February, extending his stay in Polish football until at least this summer after spending a year at top division outfit Jagellonia.
And the former Hamilton and Partick Thistle right-back insists that there’s no better place than Siedlce, situated roughly 55 miles east of Warsaw, to continue his footballing journey.
Gordon said: “In terms of developing as a player and a person, I feel playing in Poland is the best place to be for now.
“I have never experienced anything like it, it is truly unforgettable.
“It ’s a total ly di f ferent kind of atmosphere to that in Scotland.
“My first experience with flares also? That was different to say the least. But it’s incredible. I don’t think I can ever be fazed by supporters again.
“They don’t stop until the final whistle and I’m so grateful to all the fans for the support and love they have shown me.”
Gordon racked up 138 appearances at New Douglas Park with Accies before his stint with Thistle.
However, his time with the Jags was shortlived as six months later he parted company for Jagellonia, having made only 19 appearances for the Maryhill club.
Jagellonia now sit top of the Ekstraklasa, the Polish first division, having finished a best-ever second last season.
But Gordon revealed his inner turmoil when he had to choose between a return home to those he knew or to continue venturing into the European unknown by dropping down a division with Siedlce.
He said: “I have been in Poland for over a year now and I f inally understand the culture side and style of football better, so this time it didn’t take me as long to settle.
“I had offers from a few clubs in Scotland but I felt that my learning process wasn’t over yet. I felt like there was still unfinished work to do here.
“It was a very difficult decision as I had the chance to be back in my own country with family and friends.
“However, it was also important to play games immediately and perhaps that wouldn’t be the case if I was back in the Scottish Premiership.
“My only focus is to play games, hence why I signed for three months and then look at everything fresh come the summer.”