Peter Kjaer’s surprise at Kasper Schmeichel Celtic catcalls

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The Celtic Star

·24 February 2026

Peter Kjaer’s surprise at Kasper Schmeichel Celtic catcalls

Former Aberdeen and Denmark goalkeeper Peter Kjaer believes Kasper Schmeichel has felt the impact of criticism from sections of the Celtic support, but insists the experienced stopper should continue as first choice for both club and country…

All smiles from Kasper Schmeichel as he arrives at Celtic Park ahead of the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

The 39-year-old has struggled for form this season, with the pressure intensifying after a heavy 4-1 Europa League defeat at home to Stuttgart last week. On that occasion, Schmeichel was loudly criticised by some of his own fans following a difficult individual display.

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Despite the scrutiny, Schmeichel is still expected to be included in Denmark’s squad for next month’s World Cup play-off against North Macedonia.

Kasper Schmeichel of Celtic looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

Kjaer – now a television analyst and a member of Denmark’s 2002 World Cup squad after finishing his playing career at Pittodrie – admitted he was taken aback by the level of hostility directed at Schmeichel.

Speaking via Glasgow Times, Kjaer said: “I was really surprised when I head the catcalls from Celtic fans towards Kasper Schemichel. When your own fans are on your back, it is very unusual.

“It doesn’t strike me as typically British. In Scotland I never experienced it, not just towards me, but in general I didn’t experience it. You rarely experience it. I have no doubt that Kasper is mentally strong.”

Kasper Schmeichel at fault for at least two of the Stuttgart goals in the the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Celtic FC and VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park on February 19, 2026. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

“But no matter how we twist it, it’s something that affects a person. That’s how I would have felt.

“However, I don’t think it’s the right time to look for a new keeper for Denmark though. For me, it would be deeply strange if you change ahead of the first play-off game. I’m not the Denmark manager, but for me it would be crazy to change keeper, especially when we have so many injuries and suspensions in defence.”

Callum McGregor and Kasper Schmeichel of Celtic celebrate after their win in the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Celtic FC and FC Utrecht at Celtic Park on January 29, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Kjaer added: “I don’t doubt for a second the qualities of back-up goalkeepers Filip Jorgensen or Mads Hermansen. But we haven’t seen them play for the national team.”

“Kasper has made mistakes and will make some again, but you know what you are getting with him – someone who has won many caps and knows what he’s going to face.”