Celtic's teenage defender Colby Donovan described his Champions League play-off debut as a dream come true after helping the Hoops to a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory over LASK. The 19-year-old, a former ball boy and boyhood fan, produced a mature performance at right-back in front of a packed Celtic Park.
From the stands to the starting XI
Donovan, who used to watch Champions League nights as a supporter, soaked in the atmosphere as the famous anthem rang around the stadium. He said: "I try and give my best for the badge every game I go into. Hearing the fans before the game with that Champions League anthem, it was so special."
Reflecting on his journey, he added: "I used to sit in these stands and listen to the anthem and watch the boys. For me to actually do it, words actually can't describe it. You need to put that aside and you need to do the job for the team."
Calm display in a high-stakes match
Donovan showed no signs of nerves, stating he has never been nervous for a game. He explained: "Coming out of the tunnel, it was more just that excitement and wanting to go out there and play and show the fans what we can do."
His composure was evident from the start, as he looked at home under the lights just as he did in the Europa League last season. Star man Benjamin Nygren opened the scoring, but Camilo Duran stole the show with a stunning double, including a curling effort into the top corner that left Donovan full of praise.
Praise for Duran and Johnston's influence
Donovan lauded Duran's impact, saying: "Watching him put it in the top corner, he's a special player. He's going to be a big player this season. He was outstanding."
The youngster also credited Alistair Johnston, whose latest injury has opened the door for Donovan. He said: "You learn from Ali every day. You see him in the World Cup. He's a top, top player. Learning from him, seeing how he plays - you want to put stuff from his game into your own."
With Johnston facing another spell on the sidelines, Donovan is ready for an extended run, adding: "Somebody's got to fill his boots and put a performance in that people will be proud of. Hopefully I've done that for the fans."
