Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has challenged his teammates to use their performances on the pitch to ease growing tension among supporters.
The Hoops are preparing to face Middlesbrough in a Parkhead pre-season friendly, with thousands of Celtic fans choosing to boycott the match in protest.
The Championship side are expected to bring up to 10,000 fans north, with Celtic shifting a similar number of tickets by Friday evening.
Sinisalo is hopeful that strong displays can help replicate the united atmosphere the club enjoyed at Celtic Park last season.
He said: “Ultimately, we are the ones on the pitch and it comes down a little bit to if we play well.”
The Finnish goalkeeper was clear about where responsibility lies, adding: “It’s down to us to put performances in and block that out.”
Sinisalo acknowledged that supporters have every right to express their frustration, saying: “People have the right to say what they want, that’s absolutely fine.”
He reflected on the power of a united Celtic Park crowd, stating: “You saw last season how united the stadium was and how much of a push that gave everyone.”
Sinisalo said the atmosphere at Celtic Park is unlike anywhere else he has experienced in football, describing it as “a special place to play football and it’s a privilege.”
He added: “The crowd really pushes you on and when you need a goal the most, you always feel like you’re going to get a chance or you’re going to find a goal somehow.”
The keeper expressed hope that the players can give fans something to celebrate this season, saying: “Hopefully we can be in a position where we as players can put out some good stuff so the fans can really enjoy that.”
Sinisalo insisted the current squad is built on a foundation of winners, despite supporter concerns over a quiet transfer window so far this summer.
He said: “It’s a squad full of winners who have done a lot here,” while also acknowledging the need for further additions in certain areas.
Sinisalo was direct about the squad’s requirements, saying: “Do we need strengthening in areas? Yes, of course we do,” before adding that the club is building from a position of strength.
The departure of prominent players has added to supporter anxiety, with Sinisalo admitting key figures like Maeda and Engels would be difficult to replace.
He said: “They are certainly up there with the best players I’ve played with,” and acknowledged they contribute far beyond their on-pitch output.
Sinisalo was philosophical about the realities of modern football, noting: “Everyone understands that if a big money bid comes in that’s something the club and the player has to consider.”
Despite the departures, Sinisalo spoke positively about new arrival Duran, suggesting the forward has the right attributes to thrive at Celtic.
He said: “I think Duran can be impactful and be a very special player for us,” pointing to the player’s mindset as a key factor in his early impressions.
Sinisalo concluded: “We’ve not played a competitive game yet but he seems to have the right mindset, which is really important at this football club.”
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