Celtic ‘keeper Joe Hart received a range of attention for his midweek antics against Feyenoord. Despite saving a penalty, many were critical of the Englishman for how the Hoops conceded from a Calvin Stengs free-kick.

Manager Brendan Rodgers, though, has revealed he has no doubts over Hart. The Irishman spoke to the press ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime trip to Livingston and said that he is an honest man who takes responsibility.

Although he could’ve done better with the save, the wall Hart assembled didn’t look too clever. Nevertheless, Rodgers said (Daily Record): “But I have no doubts about him. He’s a really honest guy and a really honest man. We were all disappointed, having worked so hard against a team of that level.”

Brendan Rodgers
Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Rangers v Celtic – Ibrox, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – September 3, 2023 Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

The Celts conceded at the completely wrong time, and Rodgers admitted things could’ve been way different if the Scottish champions didn’t let one in when they did. He said: “We did that (matched Feyenoord’s intensity) up until that point when they took the free kick. If Joe makes the save or they miss it then for sure the whistle blows and you’re going in in a really good place at a really difficult venue.”

No one knows what would’ve happened had it been goalless at the break at de Kuip. Celtic cannot rest on their morals too much, however, as they are in league action this weekend.

A trip to Livingston lies in wait. Victory is vital in West Lothian for Brendan Rodgers and his team, who must return to winning ways.

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