Celtic winger McGeady admits he had a "nightmare" in January's semi-final victory over Dundee United, which the Hoops won 11-10 on penalties.

That epic shoot-out was not the only talking point from what was a goalless match, with many observers branding the Hampden surface the worst it had ever been.

McGeady insists the bumpy and boggy turf hindered his natural game and is relieved tomorrow's game will take place on a level playing field.

"I'm glad to hear the pitch at Hampden has been relaid," he told Celtic TV.

"When I was there for the Dundee United semi-final, I had a bit of a nightmare."

McGeady is desperate to start tomorrow's game, which would be his first taste of the League Cup showpiece.

"You want to play in as many games as you can and win as many trophies as possible," he said.

"It doesn't get any bigger than a cup final against Rangers."

The first Old Firm cup final for six years is also Stephen McManus' first final as Celtic captain.

It is a far cry from his first experience of a cup final against Rangers 10 years ago.

"I was on the groundstaff when we played Rangers in 1999," he said.

"It was the Scottish Cup final and I was just 16.

"I remember the occasion well because I was working at the game. I had to take care of everything, cleaning boots, water bottles, hanging up the strips and laying out the socks. I did everything.

"I think I cleaned everyone's boots. I remember being told I couldn't polish over the Mitre sign on David Hannah's boots. I was really careful about that.

"But I'll tell you I loved it - I took pride in what I did. It was a great experience and I learned a lot.

"The young boys don't do that any more, certainly ours don't. I've been very lucky with the grounding I have had. What with my family and then here at Celtic. It was a good way to be brought up, you learn a lot."

He added: "It would mean the world to me to captain Celtic in a winning cup final. It would be a great occasion for me and my family."