Kasper Schmeichel has shut down comments about being an "old" goalkeeper - claiming "experience is the biggest gift" in football.
The 38-year-old is due to go head-to-head tomorrow night with fellow seasoned keeper Manuel Neuer, also 38, in Celtic’s crucial Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.
Brendan Rodgers' side are aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit after a narrow defeat to the Bundesliga giants at Celtic Park last week.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s play-off second leg at the Allianz Arena, Schmeichel was asked what he believes the age limit should be for “old” goalkeepers. “I don't like that word,” the Danish international responded.
“I would rather use the word 'experience'. I think experience is the biggest gift you can have in this game.
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“If you're physically still able and you have 800-900 games under your belt, then it's the biggest advantage you can have."
The former Leicester City shot-stopper expressed admiration for Bayern icon Manuel Neuer, who has won numerous major trophies in his 21-year career, including the FIFA World Cup, 11 Bundesliga titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest goalkeepers.
“I think it's probably about 19 years ago since I played against Manuel [Neuer] the first time, and I followed his career very, very closely," Schmeichel said.
“He's probably one of the best to ever play in goal. I'd probably say he's the most complete goalkeeper I've ever seen. No weaknesses, just lots and lots of strengths. If he plays like he did the other night, then there's no limit.
“I'm certainly not the type of person to set limits. I look at every opportunity as a gift, and you've got to take them. I'm delighted for him. He had a massive injury, and he's come back from that. He's still one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”
