Source: Team_Talk
McGeady relishing Hampden surface
Celtic winger McGeady admits he had a "nightmare" in January's semi-final victory over Dundee United, which the Hoops won 11-10 on penalties.[LNB]That epic shoot-out was not the only talking point from what was a goalless match, with many observers branding the Hampden surface the worst it had ever been.[LNB]McGeady insists the bumpy and boggy turf hindered his natural game and is relieved Sunday's game will take place on a level playing field.[LNB]"I'm glad to hear the pitch at Hampden has been relaid," he told Celtic TV.[LNB]"When I was there for the Dundee United semi-final, I had a bit of a nightmare."[LNB]McGeady is desperate to start Sunday's game, which would be his first taste of the League Cup showpiece.[LNB]"You want to play in as many games as you can and win as many trophies as possible," he said.[LNB]"It doesn't get any bigger than a cup final against Rangers."[LNB]The first Old Firm cup final for six years is also Stephen McManus' first final as Celtic captain.[LNB]It is a far cry from his first experience of a cup final against Rangers 10 years ago.[LNB]"I was on the groundstaff when we played Rangers in 1999," he said.[LNB]"It was the Scottish Cup final and I was just 16.[LNB]"I remember the occasion well because I was working at the game. I had to take care of everything, cleaning boots, water bottles, hanging up the strips and laying out the socks. I did everything.[LNB]"I think I cleaned everyone's boots. I remember being told I couldn't polish over the Mitre sign on David Hannah's boots. I was really careful about that.[LNB]"But I'll tell you I loved it - I took pride in what I did. It was a great experience and I learned a lot.[LNB]"The young boys don't do that any more, certainly ours don't. I've been very lucky with the grounding I have had. What with my family and then here at Celtic. It was a good way to be brought up, you learn a lot."[LNB]He added: "It would mean the world to me to captain Celtic in a winning cup final. It would be a great occasion for me and my family."[LNB][LNB]
