Football: Capucho won't be target of boo boys.
Byline: GREIG THOMASNUNO CAPUCHO doesn't believe he will be singled out for criticism by Celtic supporters in his first Old Firm derby despite crushing their UEFA Cup dream last season.
The winger will face Celtic for the first time in a Rangers jersey in Saturday's clash at Ibrox but he will beno stranger to the Hoops faithful.
Capucho was part of the Porto side who defeated Martin O'Neill's men in the UEFA Cup Final in Seville in May, wrecking Celtic's dreams of lifting their first European trophy since 1967.
Despite the tense and hostile atmosphere that goes hand in hand with Old Firm derbies, Capucho doesn't think he will be picked on any more than his team-mates.
He said: ``I understand the feelings and attitude of the Celtic supporters who booed at the end of the UEFA Cup Final because that showed the passion they have for the club.
``Nobody likes to lose, especially when you get to a final. I was happy because I gave the Porto supporters what they were looking for.
``I don't think the Celtic fans will pick me out for criticism on Saturday because I think they understand football and recognise that what happened in Seville is in the past.''
Capucho was also part of the Porto side who beat Celtic 3-0 in the Champions League two years ago.
He also came up against the Hoops back in the 199394 season when Sporting Lisbon sent the Parkhead side crashing out of the UEFA Cup.
Capucho knows his past experience against Celtic means he already has the Ibrox support behind him heading into Saturday's game and he cannot wait to experience the white-hot atmosphere.
He told the Rangers News: ``I suppose the fans will be on my side because of what has happened but it is important I play well in every game.
``I certainly hope it's another successful day for me but, more importantly, I want it to be a good result.
``I know it's an emotional, passionate derby to play in. You prepare yourself all season for this type of game.
``I want to feel the atmosphere and everything in the stadium that day.''
CAPTION(S):
NO FEARS: Capucho
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| Title Annotation: | Sport |
|---|---|
| Publication: | Daily Record (Glasgow, Scotland) |
| Date: | Oct 2, 2003 |
| Words: | 366 |
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