Joe Hart to Celtic: a significant roll of the dice

By Euan Davidson

July 28, 2021

Celtic fans aren’t sure what to make of the club’s reported chase for former England goalkeeper Joe Hart.

A tweet from Fabrizio Romano, followed up on by The Athletic, both insist that the Bhoys are looking to Hart to solve the club’s goalkeeping problem. Vasilis Barkas had impressed in pre-season, but a high-profile mistake led to Celtic conceding against FC Midtjylland.

Another unconvincing performance, in a friendly against West Ham, only added to the uncertainty. Scott Bain, meanwhile, wasn’t particularly impressive when handed the gloves in 20-21.

Celtic had been linked to Ofir Marciano [Daily Record] and Mat Ryan [Sky Sports] amongst others. And, it’s not the first time Joe Hart has been tipped for a move to Celtic.

Used as a back-up for Tottenham Hotspur last season, Hart has had a tumultuous time since leaving Manchester City, initially on loan. He’s spent time with Torino in Serie A, West Ham and Burnley, before joining Spurs in 2020.

Whether Hart could return to his early 2010s form is up for debate. Certainly, Celtic fans aren’t universally in agreement over the former England ‘keeper’s qualities.

He did win the Premier League’s Golden Glove four times, with two Premier League titles. Along with 75 caps for England, it’s hardly a CV to sniff at. However, it’s his wages and recent record that concerns plenty of supporters.

Celtic supporters debate Joe Hart signing

Some Celtic supporters are keen on Joe Hart. The experience he can bring to a youthful backline could well be valuable. Conversely, the last 6, 7 years of his career are indicative of a player in decline, a potential gamble for the Bhoys to take, given his likely wage demands.

Bhoys fans had their say on Twitter.

Seemingly, this isn’t the goalkeeping signing that’s inspiring Celtic supporters. Should it actually comes off, no doubt fans will get behind him.

But there are definite caveats to signing the former England ‘keeper.

In other news: Acclaimed Celtic youngster to work with Bhoys Academy graduate in Ireland