Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart was in excellent form as the Hoops won the first Glasgow derby of the season against Rangers at the weekend.
The 36-year-old made a number of outstanding saves to keep a clean sheet, ensuring that Brendan Rodgers’ side secured a 1-0 victory at Ibrox.
Hart has been the subject of a lot of criticism from his own fans over the past six months but supporters on X were quick to pay tribute to the veteran shot-stopper after the match:
Arguably his best game for us
— Jayc67๐ (@Jayc67Sorare) September 3, 2023
As his biggest critic, I think he was our best player
— Jason Sharkey (@Whaleyboy37) September 3, 2023
He had a great game, couple of brilliant saves, and his positioning at times was spot on.
— ๐๐ญ๐๐ฏ๐๐ง (@Steviebarry89) September 3, 2023
He was outstandingโฆ.AND I believe he has put 3 excellent performances on the trot under the radar
— markbradley (@back2theegg) September 3, 2023
Brilliant game!
— Patricia Gachagan (@PGachagan) September 3, 2023
Agree the big man was brilliant.
— johna (@RogerWa81587509) September 3, 2023
Crackin game, especially behind a makeshift CH pairing!
— Mark McC (@BigHeffReturns) September 3, 2023
Many fans wanted to replace Hart
Despite a new keeper not being a priority in the summer transfer window, a large section of the fanbase were calling on the club to find a replacement for their current no.1.
There was some speculation about Croatian international Dominik Livakovic being a target but that ultimately proved to be a dead end as he sealed a transfer to Turkish side Fenerbahce.
Silencing the doubters
Although one match will not stop questions being asked about Celtic’s no.1, it was a really impressive display from the ex-Manchester City player at Ibrox.
Hart produced two great saves to keep substitute Danilo from scoring late on, and he did just enough to put off Sam Lammers when the Dutchman fired his shot wide of the post.
Of course, supporters will want to see these sorts of performances from Hart on a consistent basis going forward but he deserves huge credit for his contributions on Sunday.
