Celtic number one Joe Hart announced on Thursday that he will be retiring from playing senior professional football at the end of the season. The news, that came out of the blue, was rather expected at some point between now and the end of the season.
To have clarity over the goalkeeping position is positive for the club going into the summer. Confirmation that Hart won’t be playing next season means the recruitment team can get to work early doors on a crucial position.
Finding a valid replacement for Hart will be arduous because the leadership he brings to the squad is invaluable. He is a key figure within the dressing room and recently, he has been providing the goods on the park, too.
Former Celtic stopper Pat Bonner has praised Hart’s abilities and admitted that the club got the utmost value for their money when they signed him: “It’s good that Joe has ended any uncertainty over his future”, he said (SunSport).Â
“I’ve a lot of time for him. He’s been great value for what he cost. For his level of experience, in the Premier League and Serie A and for England, a fee of £1m was a bargain.
“He will be one of the leaders in the Celtic dressing room along with Callum McGregor — and for that reason, he’ll also be a big miss.”
Getting Hart’s replacement spot-on should be of critical importance for Celtic going into the summer. Although he has faced criticism, and rightly so at times, throughout his spell in Glasgow, the overall influence he has had on the team and club has been positive.
