FRASER Forster is back at Celtic Park after previously spending four years at the club between 2010 and 2014, two on loan from Newcastle United and two after signing, and the towering keeper feels like he has never been away.

He moved to Southampton and is now on loan back at the Hoops until the end of the season after five years at St Mary’s with the Premier League club, and he couldn’t be happier.

The 31-year-old, who took in the 2-0 Europa League win over AIK and was reintroduced to the crowd at half-time, told Celtic TV: “It feels like I never left. I was at the game last night and saw so many people I know, so many familiar faces. I’m just delighted to be back.

“I had goosebumps walking out at half-time, it was an unbelievable reception. I’ve had a tough couple of years and to come back to that was absolutely fantastic. Football’s mad. It changes so quickly, it’s crazy and one of those things. This time it’s worked in my favour and I’m just buzzing to be back.”

The keeper is now reunited with Neil Lennon after an injury to regular starter between the sticks, Scott Bain, left just Craig Gordon with crucial first-team experience.

Forster added: “I probably hoped for it. Me and Lenny get on really well, I get on well with everyone here. I’m buzzing it’s happened but it’s unfortunate for Scott to pick up that injury. It’s a great opportunity for me to come back and play, and it just feels like I’ve come home. I feel like I’ve never been away.

“I looked out for the result every week to see how Celtic would get on. I was constantly following them in their European games as well.

“I think it’s one of those things, you fall in love with the club when you come, and at the time I felt it was right thing to go and get a new experience. But when I left, I always hoped that one day I’d come back again and fortunately that’s happened.”

Born on St Patrick’s Day in the club's centenary year of 1988, the keeper will wear the iconic No.67 on his shirt – an honour that isn’t lost on him.

He said: “Having been here before, having four great years, I know what the club’s all about. When I was here the first time, Victor Wanyama had it. I was just looking at the numbers and what was available, and that was the one that stood out to me.

“I know what it means to the fans and the club, and represents what the club means to me as well. I absolutely love it and I’m buzzing to be back home.”

Aside from Neil Lennon, Forster will be teaming up with goalkeeping coach, Stevie Woods once more, and, although he’s here on the back on Scott Bain’s unfortunate injury, he is ready to battle with Craig Gordon for the No.1 spot.

He said: “That’s part of football. We are blessed to have two great keepers here already, obviously Scott’s been unlucky with his injury, when you look at Craig and his CV and what he’s done in the game, he’s done brilliantly well.

“I’m aware I’ve got a fight but that’s what I love. Working hard, improving and being back here with Woodsy and Lenny, I’m sure they’ll get the best out of me.”

Fraser Forster: It feels like I’ve never been away from Celtic