Joe Hart is a player that the Celtic fans have really taken to their hearts (no pun intended) over the course of the last two seasons.
The big Englishman had the unenviable task of taking over from Vasilis Barkas. The Greek goalkeeper had a well-documented nightmarish first season at Celtic and Hart was under immediate pressure to show he was the man the fans could be confident in between the sticks.
And he did just that. But Hart just didn’t bring ability, he brought leadership and stability to the backline as well and proved to the fans time and again that he was the rightful No1.
But under Brendan Rodgers, Hart may have to prove himself all over again. That’s according to former Celtic goalkeeper, Pat Bonner.
Bonner reckons that Rodgers’ style of play will demand more from Hart than Ange Postecoglou’s did as the Irishman builds play more from the backline and he has questioned whether or not Hart can cope with that demand.
Bonner said (BBC Sportsound), “It’s going to be a big season for Joe Hart. Joe fitted in really well into Ange’s team.
“He made some mistakes along the way, which all goalkeepers will do, but I don’t think he was asked as many times to build the game the way maybe Brendan would want.
“Pep Guardiola came into Manchester City and didn’t allow him to get the opportunity because his analysis was he couldn’t do it and that affected his confidence.
“He’s done exceptionally well coming up here. He’s a leader in the dressing room, he’s a leader outside of it.
“He makes the big saves at the right moment which is a critical part to play for Celtic. You’ve got to make the big save when you haven’t been overactive in the game.
“But the part of the game that we all know that 70/80% of your actions now is with the ball with your feet. He’s done okay in it.
“Now, is he capable of doing it under Brendan and the way that Brandon would put a much greater demand? That’s a question.
“I think he’s better than maybe we’ve seen some of them in the past. But is he up to the level that Brendan wants?”
We all know Hart isn’t the most comfortable goalkeeper with the ball at his feet. I would imagine the big goalie would admit that himself, but he is very effective at doing what goalkeepers are meant to do. Keeping the ball out the back of the net.
Whether or not Rodgers would be willing to forego his lack of ability with the ball at his feet for having a reliable set of gloves is a question only the Celtic manager can answer.
Hart has been brilliant for Celtic. But there is no doubt he is getting on and this season will determine whether or not he can continue to contribute to the team under Rodgers.
I would imagine that for this season, Hart will continue as Celtic’s number one. Rodgers is said to be looking to add another ‘keeper to the squad this summer. But for now, I believe Hart should keep the jersey until such times someone can come in and prove that they are better than what we already have.
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