Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart has taken the decision to retire from professional football at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on his trophy-laden career.
The 36-year-old arrived at Parkhead in 2021 and has gone on to be a pivotal player for the Hoops, racking up two Scottish Premiership, two Scottish League Cup trophies and a solitary Scottish Cup.
Of course, he still has the chance to add to his tally this campaign amid Celtic’s ongoing hunt for a domestic double under Brendan Rodgers.
To date, 75-time England international Hart has made 138 appearances for Celtic, keeping 59 clean sheets in the process [Transfermarkt].
Shrewsbury-born, the veteran has won the Premier League three times in the earlier part of his career at Manchester City, becoming synonymous with the Citizens’ rise to prominence in English football.
He also won the Golden Glove prize on four occasions, a record total, which is an award granted to the goalkeeper who records the most clean sheets over the course of a season.
Torino, West Ham United, Burnley, and Tottenham Hotspur rank among some of his other adventures.
However, he will end his career at Parkhead, where he has forged an unbreakable bond with supporters due to his passion and commitment to the cause.
Brendan Rodgers reacts to Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart’s decision
Speaking to official Celtic channels, Rodgers has offered some instant reaction to Hart’s decision to hang up his gloves.
The Irishman stated: “Joe has enjoyed a phenomenal career and I know will be huge miss to the game when he finally retires from playing football in the summer.
“For all he has done in football, Joe deserves huge praise and congratulations, he has been such a brilliant asset to Celtic of course and the wider game at the highest levels, domestically and internationally.
“But more than that, he is a tremendous man, just brilliant to work with, someone who I know has been a great team-mate to so many throughout his career and a player who never gives anything but his absolute best. Each and every day his work ethic is an example to all in football.”
He then added: “While he will be a real loss on the pitch, I know he will stay in football in some form. It will always be part of his life and I am sure whatever he does after the summer time, everyone at the club wishes him nothing but the very best of success.
“I totally understand and respect Joe’s reasons for making this announcement and for being clear to the club and our fans on his future.
“I also know he will continue to work right through this season with the same intensity, commitment and drive which he has always been known for.”
Congratulations to Hart on a wonderful career, as he now gets set for the final few months of his time as a player before being able to look back on his brilliant achievement haul.
His presence will be sorely missed at Celtic and whoever steps into his role has some big shoes to fill between the sticks.
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