Paulo Bernardo has very happy memories of playing at Hampden, having played his part in Celtic’s Scottish Cup final success last season. The Portuguese midfielder, who came off the bench in that game against Rangers, played a key role in Celtic’s winning goal, driving forward from midfield and seeing his shot saved but then turned into the net by fellow substitute, Adam Idah. Now, the 22-year-old is looking forward to this Sunday’s League Cup final at the National Stadium, and the fact that it’s another Glasgow derby only makes the game even more special. Speaking ahead of this weekend’s match, Paulo Bernardo said: “Everyone is excited to play another final for this club. “It’s a final and everyone wants to play and enjoy the moment. I did last time. We won and we enjoyed it and it was very good for us, and we want to do the same again. ‘When I arrived, Celtic weren’t in the (League Cup) competition so I didn’t have a taste for it, but I have now and I want to win another trophy for this club.’ “It was very good, like I said, and it’s very good memories from last year. This year is a different year, a different game and a different final so we’re looking forward to it and I’m excited to be part of it. “It’s in the past, it’s memories, so we need to focus on the present and be ready for the future.”Bernardo has enjoyed his experiences of the Glasgow derby up to now, and the goal he scored in the 2-1 victory at Celtic Park last December remains a particularly fond memory. And even though the Hoops have been the dominant force in this fixture in recent seasons, the Portuguese midfielder knows that will all be set to one side come Sunday afternoon. “It’s two really big clubs, it’s a historical match so it’s always good to play these games,” he said. “It’s one more game, it’s a final so it’s a big game but we just need to do the simple things and work as hard as possible. “We try to do our best in every game. It’s one more game for us, it’s a final against Rangers. “We were dominating these games before but it’s another game and I think they’re better now so I think it will be very difficult for us, it will be very difficult for them, and I think it will be a very good football game to watch and to play.” MORE ON THE MATCH Take the pre-match quiz - click here Training Gallery –
Celtic FC · Dec 13
Paulo Bernardo: Everyone is excited to play another final for this club
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