Kasper Schmeichel’s return to Scotland has nothing to do with chasing a big pay packet. According to Brian Rice speaking to Record Sport, the man who first brought him north to Falkirk in 2007.
Rice, now Livingston’s assistant manager, has closely followed Schmeichel’s career and insists the Danish goalkeeper is still driven by the hunger to win. At 37, when many players are considering retirement or cashing in on their reputation, Schmeichel is keen to add to his trophy haul with Celtic.
Still Hungry for Success
“Kasper is a winner and he wants to win more. That’s why he’s at Celtic,” said Rice. “He’s not resting on his laurels. He’s come to a club that’s in the Champions League and used to domestic success, and Kasper wants a bit of that.”
Schmeichel’s immediate impact has been clear, with the keeper conceding just one goal in the league since his arrival. But Rice believes even that would have frustrated him. “He’s only lost one goal in the league, but even that he’ll be raging with. That’s what makes him the goalkeeper he is.”
Seamless Transition Between Goalkeepers
Celtic needed a top-quality replacement when Joe Hart retired this summer, and Brendan Rodgers acted swiftly to bring in Schmeichel. Having worked together at Leicester City, Rodgers knew the level of experience and reliability Schmeichel would bring.
Rice sees Schmeichel as the perfect successor to Hart, explaining, “They’ve got different attributes, but they’re both legends in their own right. Celtic have replaced a top keeper with another. In terms of quality, it’s like for like – one legend for another.”
With Celtic and Aberdeen both on seven-game winning streaks, the veteran goalkeeper will be crucial in the upcoming Premiership clash against the joint league leaders.
Living Up to a Famous Name
The weight of following in his father Peter Schmeichel’s footsteps has never fazed Kasper, according to Rice, who credits the keeper for carving out his own identity. “He comes from good stock. His father was sensational, and Kasper has had a magnificent career himself,” said Rice.
“When your dad is Peter Schmeichel, they’re big gloves to fill, but Kasper hasn’t relied on his father’s name. He’s made his own career through his own performances.”
Rodgers’ Trust in Schmeichel
Bringing Schmeichel to Celtic was an easy decision for Rodgers, who values the Dane’s ability to fit into his system. Rice added, “It helps that Brendan knows him. Celtic will have a lot of possession, and the keeper needs to stay focused and be reliable when called upon. He also needs to fit into how Celtic play.”
Rodgers’ system, which favours playing out from the back, plays to Schmeichel’s strengths, with Rice pointing out that the keeper’s footwork is a key asset. “Brendan knows what Kasper can do with the ball at his feet. He’s a player. He can kick it long, pass it, or clip it out when needed.”
At 37, Schmeichel’s work ethic and professionalism remain top-class. His career, which includes a Premier League title, international caps, and stints across various leagues, speaks for itself.
A Familiar Face in Scotland
Rice was instrumental in bringing Schmeichel to Falkirk back in 2007, using his contacts to secure a loan deal from Manchester City. He reflected on the similarities between Schmeichel and Hart, saying, “Joe Hart was a fantastic keeper, and so is Kasper. Look at the clubs they’ve played for. You don’t play for those clubs unless you’re a top professional and performer.”
