Throughout his distinguished career as a football commentator, Clive Tyldesley has identified two of the most atmospheric stadiums he has ever visited.
The Englishman, who started his career in 1975 for Radio Trent, has been in the gantry for numerous games both locally and on the European stage. He has worked for companies such as BBC Sport, ITV Sport, CBS Sports, and Rangers TV.
When thousands of Rangers supporters were unable to attend games during the COVID-19 outbreak, the seasoned announcer was available to continue working for the Scottish Premiership powerhouse.
Given his prior employment with the Ibrox-based group, Tyldesley’s response to the question of what atmosphere he had encountered during his lengthy and illustrious career may have come as a surprise to some.
“You can’t beat a match under the lights, night matches so automatically you think of big European games, Champions League games,” Tyldesley stated in an interview with Stand Out Sport.
The relationship between the club and supporters is what makes the stadiums, which are both regarded as two of the most atmospheric venues in British football, so unique, he said, citing both Celtic Park, home of Scottish team Celtic, and Liverpool’s Anfield as two of the best atmospheres in world football.
“On a significant European night, both Celtic Park and Anfield are incredibly special. I’ve never known a relationship between a football team and its supporters that is that strong.
He waxed poetic about the atmospheres in Greece and Turkey, saying that Liverpool and Celtic are the only clubs that are “getting it right”: “I’ve witnessed crazy crowds in Greece and Turkey, but I believe Liverpool and Celtic have a track record of doing that well when it comes to real interaction with the football team.
“That fosters an environment that provides a true home advantage. Home advantage isn’t always what it seems, especially if you’re struggling and under pressure after your first error.
“That level of positivity you get and that element of intimidation for the opponent walking out into that atmosphere, seeing You’ll Never Walk Alone sung at both grounds,” the 70-year-old commentator said. “Yes, a Champions League night at Celtic Park or Anfield.”
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