Joe Hart has described the Celtic fans as “incredible” in one of his first media interviews since leaving the club.
Hart is enjoying a well-earned holiday after retiring from professional football, capping off his career with a league and cup double at Celtic.
The former goalkeeper won seven trophies in total at the club, striking up a brilliant rapport with supporters across 153 appearances.
He’s spoken passionately and eloquently about the Celtic experience along the way, making it crystal clear that he’s absolutely loved his time in Glasgow.
And that evangelism looks set to continue despite hanging up his gloves as he prepares for a prominent role in English football media.
Joe Hart had the perfect career ending at Celtic
Speaking to The Mirror [07/06 print edition p. 64], Hart said: “I’ve loved every minute of my career. But it felt like I finished feeling exactly the same as I have my whole life. Fit, strong and hungry. That didn’t change and that was a good feeling for me.
“The Celtic fans are incredible. Their understanding, both from a football and a human sense, touched my heart. It was a tough season, the league was a tough slog with the cup finals and I could not have written it any better.
You talk about Toni Kroos and he’s had the ultimate and could still win the Euros. That’s Toni’s story and I could not have asked for more from mine.”
Hart ready for pundit transition
Hart will be included in the BBC’s pundit line-up for the upcoming EURO 2024 tournament and he is looking forward to getting stuck into the gig alongside Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
The former goalkeeper said: “It’s not just TV because I also feel I can give something back on the content side. I do feel I want to give back and I don’t necessarily feel coaching is for me.
“This is something that really appeals to me. It will be great to be back with Micah Richards. I’ve worked with Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer before and it’s an exciting line-up. I’m really looking forward to working with them.”
Celtic fans will enjoy watching his insight this summer and it sounds like Hart has bigger plans, too, hinting that he’ll be producing more content than just appearing on television.
