Lukas Podolski claimed he did not celebrate his goal in Bayern Munich's 3-0 win at Cologne as "a mark of respect" for his former club.
The Germany international, who was heavily linked with a return to the Bundesliga new-boys over the summer, completed the scoring in a comfortable win for the visitors.
While the Cologne fans cheered the 23-year-old's goal against their own team - a sign of the regard in which he is held by the home supporters - Podolski's celebrations were more muted.
"It was just like scoring against Poland - it is a mark of respect," said the Polish-born Germany striker of his decision not to celebrate.
"To be celebrated so much here as an opponent is a unique situation," he added.
After the game Podolski did a lap of honour and Bayern coach Jurgen Klinsmann admitted: "For him to get such a reception here is very moving."
Podolski again though started the game on the bench and only entered the fray 10 minutes after the break.
He has made not secret of his frustration at his failure to win a place in Bayern's starting line-up - Klinsmann favours Miroslav Klose and Luca Toni, who scored Bayern's first two goals on Saturday, in attack - but is determined to prove to Klinsmann he should play from the outset.
"It is up to me," Podolski said. "If I play well in the minutes I get, then the coach cannot ignore me."
The coach added: "I was delighted at Lukas' goal. He will make progress with us."
