Viljami Sinisalo on Stevie Woods and his ‘no excuses culture’ at Celtic

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The Celtic Star

·11 April 2026

Viljami Sinisalo on Stevie Woods and his ‘no excuses culture’ at Celtic

Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has opened up on his long-term goal of moving into management – despite still being in the early stages of his playing career at just 24…

As a shot-stopper, the Finn could realistically remain active at the top level for many more years, potentially well into his late 30s or beyond.

However, his forward-thinking mindset has already been evident, particularly following his recent run in the starting line-up after Kasper Schmeichel suffered a career threatening injury.

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While it is relatively uncommon for goalkeepers to transition into coaching roles at the highest level, Sinisalo has made it clear that he intends to pursue that path.

Stevie Woods and Gavin Strachan arrive at the Falkirk Stadium. Falkirk v Celtic, Scottish Premiership, Falkirk Stadium, 14 January 2026. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Speaking on the Celtic FC Podcast, when asked about working under goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods, he said: “Very good. Very good to work with. The level of detail that he gives us before games… and again, very much what I said with Kevin Miller [Exeter GK Coach] in terms of the no-excuse culture.”

“He gives you the platform to know everything about your opposition so you can’t, in any case, fall back on not knowing something or not being ready for something.”

“So I think that’s the main thing. And, just a nice human being. I think that’s half the battle as well. It’s the technical ability and the human side, that he makes you feel a million dollars when you’re in the team.”

Kasper Schmeichel, Stevie Woods and Viljami Sinisalo of Celtic. Stuttgart v Celtic, UEFA Europa League, Knockout Round Play Offs, Second Leg, Football, MHP Arena, Stuttgart, Germany – 26 Feb 2026Stuttgart MHP Arena Germany Photo James Marsh IMAGO Shutterstock

“That’s a quality that me, wanting to be a coach one day, would want to take on. I want to make my players feel ten feet tall and on top of the world, which is something that Woodsy definitely does. I believe that’s when you get the best out of your players.”

When asked whether he thinks he will become a manager one day, Sinisalo said: “Yeah, it’s kind of funny. Not necessarily goalie coach, but I’ve always wanted to go into management when I retire.

“That’s a long way away still, hopefully, touch wood. Hopefully I can have a career abroad, outside of Finland, and one of my dreams has always been…

“After my career, can I take the knowledge that you learn playing abroad playing for whatever club you play for, can I take it into the Finnish game and show them something that it’s been lacking for a little bit?

“Not revolutionise that side of it, but give them something new to think about. That’s something that I’d feel would be incredibly cool.

“As well, you work alongside some incredible human beings when you’re in different changing rooms, and if you can put a group together of people that share the same thinking as you in the changing room and try and coach that to younger lads, I think that’s a great thing. So I’ve always wanted to, kind of, do that.”

Conor Spence

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