FRASER FORSTER states firmly that he is the sort of personality who always looks forward.
The recent past, though, must tempt him to look in the rear-view mirror.
A year ago, he watched a ball trundle into the net after he and Cha Du Ri conspired to create the sort of defensive double act first credited to Laurel and Hardy.
The road from that Europa League match in Rennes, though, has been navigated with great skill by the 24-year-old Englishman who can now enjoy the dramatic prospect of joining an England squad.
He admitted yesterday that possible damage to an international call-up weighed in his mind when, after some deliberation, he signed a four-year contract to remain at the club. Did he believe that signature would affect his England chances?
"Definitely. I obviously had a decision in the summer to be made, I signed and I am delighted to be here. I couldn't feel any better with the way we've done in the Champions League and with this coming about, as well," he said.
He brushed off critical comments from his former manager, Alan Pardew at Newcastle United, about the standard of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League
''Everyone is entitled to their opinion. That was his,'' he said. ''John Ruddy had a season up here [at Motherwell] and has gone down south and done well at Norwich. Playing for Celtic has massively benefited me, as well. Getting in the Champions League has also helped."
A penalty save against Hearts just before Christmas last year has been viewed as a turning point in Forster's fortunes but the goalkeeper has benefited from playing in Europe, particularly in the Champions League.
If away days have shown Forster at his best, particularly in Udine, the goalkeeper defends the domestic league from its critics.
"The SPL at times has taken a bit of stick but I think what we have done this season, getting into the Champions League and doing well, can only help things. It has been a tough summer. There are a lot of negatives being chucked around but everyone in the league has come together and reacted really positively. Scottish football has a lot to be really proud of."
His history with England can be briefly summarised. He has never watched the team live and has never been to Wembley. He can look forward now with some expectation.
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