Ange Postecoglou explains the Joe Hart Celtic captaincy decision

By John McGinley

September 16, 2021

Ange Postecoglou has saluted the character and leadership of Joe Hart after selecting him as his Celtic captain tonight in Seville.

The Bhoys are playing away to Real Betis in the UEFA Europa League this evening.

With Callum McGregor missing out due to injury, there was an obvious leadership gap in the squad. No-one could really give a definitive call on who would be given the nod with the armband.

The manager chose Hart and speaking to BT Sport tonight [17:31], he explained what the goalkeeper offers as captain: “One of the reasons I brought him in is because he is a fantastic character and has a great experience.

“It’s handy to have him here at the moment because of course with Cal missing we’re missing an important part of our structure on and off the field but I’m sure Joe will handle it well.”

Hart has already been called upon on a couple of occasions tonight, with one save in particular denying a certain Betis goal.

Going into half-time the match remains in the balance at 2-2 and Hart will have to regroup the squad in the dressing room at half-time, along with the manager.

It’s been a fast, frantic evening, but incredible Europa League entertainment.

If ever we needed some strong leadership to help steady the ship for a while after the interval, it’s now.

Hopefully, Joe can go on and show his worth again in the second half, both as a goalkeeper and the glue that holds this Bhoys defence together.

In other news, Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou sets his own terms with latest cutting press remark.