Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner has expressed his belief that Celtic will encounter significant challenges in finding a suitable replacement for their goalkeeper.
This announcement comes as Joe Hart, who has played a crucial role in Celtic’s recent successes, revealed his retirement at the age of 36. Hart, a former England number one, has earned widespread praise for his contributions, even from his previous manager Brendan Rodgers.
Celtic, having secured Hart for a mere £1 million in 2021, view him as an invaluable asset.
Bonner acknowledges the difficulty in acquiring a goalkeeper of similar stature during the upcoming summer recruitment drive. Hart’s impact at Celtic has been immense, providing stability to a precarious situation and making crucial saves when needed.
Bonner lauds Hart as a top professional and a leader on and off the pitch, emphasizing his significant role in the dressing room alongside Callum McGregor.
Hart’s decision to clarify his future is appreciated by Bonner, who recognizes the goalkeeper’s commitment to ensuring his final season with Celtic is successful.
Bonner values Hart’s exemplary work ethic and leadership qualities, considering him a role model for the club. As Hart prepares for a well-deserved break with his family, Bonner reflects on the challenge Celtic now faces in filling the void left by the experienced goalkeeper.
He anticipates the need for Celtic to explore the market for a replacement, acknowledging the difficulty in finding a candidate of Hart’s caliber and highlighting the absence of promising options within the current squad.
Bonner concludes that Celtic will likely have to invest in acquiring a goalkeeper, recognizing the significant boots they must fill in the absence of Joe Hart.