For many spectators, their first glimpse of James Forrest would have been back in 2010, when he made his debut against Motherwell toward the end of the season.
In the case of former Celtic midfielder Scott Allan, however, he knew of the winger’s potential way back in the opening stages of their respective careers at academy level.
Speaking exclusively to The Celtic Way, the 33-year-old recounted the time when he faced off against the player who would become the club’s most decorated servant. “I will never forget the first time I ever played against Celtic for Dundee United at under-10 level,” said Allan.
“Walking off the pitch, I said to my dad that a winger playing for Celtic was incredible – it was Jamesy! From the age of 10, I played against James all the way through, but the first time I played against him, he had that impact. At the time, I felt that I was as good as anybody, so I was very confident, but I have loved Jamesy’s game from the get-go.
“I think what people forget is to go that length of time at a club, if you take away just his ability, it actually speaks more about the type of teammate you are.
"A good thing for young players to look at is, yes, he's an outstanding footballer, with good dribbling, close control and end product, but I think one of the biggest things for me is that he has been a good teammate, and Jamesy certainly ticks all the boxes.
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“That is why they get their longevity at clubs, as people understand their importance around a team, and Jamesy and obviously Callum (McGregor), who is not far behind him, are of that mould.”
Last season, Forrest became Celtic’s most decorated player, having overtaken Lisbon Lion Bobby Lennox to achieve that accolade. He topped off his own individual season in style, scoring for the 16th season running, equalling Paul McStay’s record.
Watching on from afar, Allan was delighted that his former teammate managed to maintain his ongoing goalscoring feat. “It really was (incredible),” replied the former Kelty Hearts player-coach, when asked about the scenes in the 94th minute on Trophy Day at Celtic Park.
“I think everybody in Scottish football, well, not everybody, would have wished Jamesy to have that moment, and it was quite fitting that it was on Trophy Day at Celtic Park.”
“As I said, it could not have happened to a better professional, but more importantly, a brilliant teammate.”
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