JOZO SIMUNOVIC has revealed Neil Lennon’s words before the game about Billy McNeill inspired him to go out and become a hero on the day.
The Celtic defender scored an outstanding header while wearing Billy’s old number on the 67th minute in a fairytale moment against Kilmarnock. Speaking after the game, Jozo also commented on the sheer volume of fans who turned up before the game to show their respect to Billy inspired him further.
“I was surprised on the bus before the game when I saw so many fans” He told RecordSport “I couldn’t have imagined something like that. It gave me an impulse to give even more.
“I believed it would be a special day for me because of the No.5.
“And the manager spoke to us about Billy before the game to inspire us.
“Everyone knows how big a name he is and the impact he had on Celtic. He was a leader, an amazing guy.
“Before the game the manager said a few things about him. That motivated us even more.
“Some people will say that I’m lucky to score wearing the famous No.5 shirt in 67 minutes – the year in which the club lifted the European Cup.
“I’m blessed. I believe in that. I didn’t know the time, I hadn’t looked at the screen. But when I realised it was that minute it made me even happier.
“I’ll remember this moment for the rest of my life. Trophies are special – but this is something else.
“I had a chat with Billy’s family after the game – it made the day even more memorable.”
Jozo gave his shirt to the McNeill family after the game in another touching gesture with Billy’s wife and family in attendance on the day.
Celtic virtually wrapped up the title with the win yesterday in an emotional day at Paradise. The bhoys were again not at their best but they managed to get over the line in the end. Kilmarnock played their part on the day and gave many people a surprise by competing with the bhoys for most of the game.
