Ange Postecoglou references future for Barkas and Bain Celtic despite Hart arrival

By Euan Davidson

August 5, 2021

Ange Postecoglou has hinted at a Celtic future for both Scott Bain and Vasilis Barkas, despite the arrival of Joe Hart.

The Celtic boss, delighted by the attitude of former Manchester City stopper Hart, doesn’t seem to want to enact a huge clear-out at the club. Instead, the Bhoys’ manager has emphasised the opportunity for Bain and Barkas to learn from the 75-cap Englishman.

Both Barkas and Bain struggled last season at Celtic, and that’s continued into 21-22. The Greek goalie, who looked promising in pre-season, struggled to deal with a set-piece against FC Midtjylland. Bain, meanwhile, was called into question after conceding twice against Hearts.

The long-term confusion over the number 1 jersey has necessitated investment. Hart represents that, even at 34 years of age. More than his ability, though, Postecoglou is counting on the Englishman providing some positive influence at the club.

Postecoglou said [Sun]:

“Scott Bain and Vasilis Barkas, in particular, I just think they had a really tough year last year.

“Having someone like Joe around will help them as well, because he’s a player who’s played at the highest level for a long time.

“I’ve been at pains to say we need to bring players in, and we’ve been working hard to do that.”

Barkas and Bain: decent back-up options for Joe Hart at Celtic?

It’s not hard to imagine that plenty of Celtic supporters would rather see the back of both Scott Bain and Vasilis Barkas.

To suggest either have won the confidence of the Hoops faithful over recent seasons would be inaccurate in the extreme.

However, as back-ups? It’s not unfeasible to imagine both improving with Joe Hart in tow. The Champions League, Premier League and international experience, including World Cup appearances, can hardly be a negative to draw upon.

For what it’s worth, we’ve argued that it’s likely one or both will leave this transfer window. However, Postecoglou could be seeing the picture differently.

Has their recent form been an aberration, or something that can be vastly improved? At 34, there’ll need to be a contingency plan for life after Joe Hart.

How fascinating it would be if a fully confident Barkas or Bain step up a few levels with the Premier League winner around.

Read more: Have the mind games begun?