Artur Boruc reckons Celtic have a ‘top-class’ goalkeeper in Joe Hart and believes the Bhoys can start to pick up positive results in their UEFA Champions League group.
Hart was at fault for one of the conceded goals in the opening European fixture away to Feyenoord, beaten far too easily from a free-kick. The Englishman’s bad week continued on Saturday after he was sent off for wiping out Livingston opponent Mohammed Sangare.
However, Boruc – an iconic goalkeeper in his own right at Celtic – has backed Hart to continue to perform for the Bhoys and has told his former side that anything is possible in upcoming matches against Lazio, Atletico Madrid and Feyenoord.
He said [Sunday Post, 24/09 print edition]: “Joe Hart is a top-class keeper. He has played at the highest level for many years in England and for his country and knows what it takes. I feel he is composed, makes big saves and is a great communicator. He is also a top professional to have in the dressing room and around the football club.”
On the five remaining Champions League fixtures, Boruc continued: “Standing under the floodlights at Celtic Park, in front of 60,000 supporters, was a fantastic feeling. It’s very hard to put into words just what it means. But it was inspirational. The supporters roared us on to victory, of that there is no doubt.
“It can be the same this season. Never rule out the team from winning at home. The games against Lazio, Atletico Madrid and Feyenoord will be difficult, but not impossible. Remember, the team has an excellent manager in Brendan Rodgers. He knows football inside out and knows what’s required at Celtic.
“There are also many quality players in the team. It’s within Celtic’s capabilities to get a few positive results.”
Celtic host Lazio in just ten days’ time, then have a home game against Atletico on matchday three. It’s a critical pair of fixtures. The result away to Feyenoord was disappointing but Celtic’s European campaign is unlikely to be defined by the matches on the road.
If Rodgers’ side can perform to a high level in the three home fixtures, there is undoubtedly a chance of securing European football after Christmas. That would be a sign of progress for the club and a coup for the manager on his return.
In other news, Celtic boost as firm date set for Cameron Carter-Vickers comeback.
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