Izaguirre inspired by Carlos

Defender likens himself to Samba star

Last updated: 9th September 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Izaguirre inspired by Carlos

Izaguirre: To dazzle like Bobby

I'm not sure I do the same as he does with free-kicks but I'm starting to build myself up by practising his corners

Emilio Izaguirre
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Celtic left-back Emilio Izaguirre has revealed he is bidding to become the club's answer to Roberto Carlos.

The Honduras international has set his ambitions high after his £600,000 switch to Parkhead last month.

The 24-year-old admitted Roberto Carlos, who became a household name in world football for Real Madrid and Brazil, was his idol growing up.

And the Hoops defender hopes to emulate his hero's antics for Neil Lennon's side, telling the Daily Record: "He is the man who inspired me as a youngster and is one I have looked up to since I was a young child starting the game.

"Roberto Carlos plays the position I have always played. I like to watch his style and the way he plays the game.

"He likes to attack and seems to enjoy himself every time he steps on to the pitch. Carlos is a great player but most importantly for me, he plays in the same left-back position as I do and I have always tried to copy his style.

"I'm not sure I do the same as he does with free-kicks but I'm starting to build myself up by practising his corners."

Motivation

Celtic supporters got their first glimpse of Izaguirre a fortnight ago when he was thrust into the squad for the SPL encounter at Motherwell and he was an instant hit as he helped his side to a clean sheet and three points.

Lennon was impressed and there is a strong chance he will be in the left-back slot for Saturday's match against Hearts.

For Izaguirre, it will be a first taste of action at Celtic Park and a crowd of almost 50,000 is expected for the showdown against Jim Jefferies' outfit.

Several foreign players have frozen when pitched into the pressurised atmospheres of Parkhead or Ibrox but Izaguirre's track record would suggest it won't be a problem.

He said: "When there are classic games in Motagua, there can be crowds of 40,000 for championship matches. But I'm used to playing in front of much bigger crowds when I play for Honduras.

"Against Mexico there will be 90,000 at the match. I take extra motivation when I see so many people in the stadium.

"I understand the atmosphere and the crowds here at our home stadium can be terrific. It is something I can't wait to experience. I want to get out there as soon as possible and would love the chance to play in my first game at Celtic Park against Hearts this weekend."