Friends reunited but Jeremie Frimpong determined to beat Celtic

Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong is relishing the prospect of playing in front of Celtic supporters again eight months on from his Parkhead departure.

The 20-year-old Dutchman was signed by the German club for a reported fee of £11m in January.

He now faces a reunion with his former team in Thursday’s Europa League showdown at Celtic Park.

Speaking after Leverkusen trained on the pitch on the eve of the match, Frimpong said: “It’s really amazing to be back.

“When I was in the car, I was just looking at the streets remembering how I used to be here and when I saw the inside of the stadium again it was an amazing feeling to be back.

“When the draw was made, some of the players Mikey (Johnston) and (Boli) Bolingoli texted me and said, ‘we have you in the group’.

“I didn’t know what they were talking about, then I came inside and saw the group and was like, ‘yeah, it’s going to be good to be back’.

“The boys can’t wait to see me, and I’m the same. We’re good friends and it’s always good to see your friends. I’m expecting a good reception from the fans. Me and the fans had a great relationship.”

Despite his bond with Celtic, Frimpong is fully focused on the task at hand.

He said: “I’m here for one job and that’s to beat Celtic. I’m going to give it my all for my team.”