Super Joe Hart has been doing a Q&A with Celtic supporters on the club’s official twitter account this lunchtime…
The hugely popular Celtic goalkeeper was asked about his favourite moment playing for Celtic, the best atmosphere he experienced at Celtic Park and why goalies come out first for the warm-up, plus loads more. Here’s how it all went…
Q: What’s been your favourite moment in a Celtic shirt?
Joe Hart: “My favourite moment was Saturday. That was one of my favourite moments in a pair of gloves and boots.”
Q: If you had to give any advice to aspiring young goalkeepers what would it be?
Joe Hart: “Do it because you love it and constantly remind yourself to enjoy!”
Q: What made you fall in love with the club?
Joe Hart: “I struggle for words because I don’t want to sound cliché by just saying the fans, the support and the energy. I suppose it’s the expectations of the club and the understanding of the club.”
Q: Why do the keepers come out first for the warm up?
Joe Hart: “I don’t actually know is the answer! I’ve always wanted to get my warm up done as quickly as possible as sometimes we’re diving around and soaking wet in conditions. I change everything as quick as possible then giving myself more time to prepare.”
Q: Best atmosphere you’ve experienced at Celtic Park?
Joe Hart: “The 3-0 night game against Rangers when we took the lead in the league. There’s been plenty, Saturday included, but that was pretty mind-blowing.”
Q: Genuinely how close did come to retiring before you joined Celtic?
Joe Hart: “I was pretty sure I didn’t have a space in football. I didn’t come close because I still had a year on my contract but in terms of retiring from a passion point of view, I could have if I didn’t get this opportunity.”
Q: How does Callum McGregor rate as a captain compared to others you have worked with?
Joe Hart: “I can’t speak highly enough about him. The biggest compliment I can pay him is that he’s willing to learn on the job. He puts the club before himself. On top of that he’s an exceptional player. He’s perfect for a leader of such an important football club.”
Q: What age were you when you wanted to be a goalkeeper?
Joe Hart: “I woudn’t say I ever decided, I just ended up in goal more than outfield from 16 onwards. The higher up the level the more likely I was to go in goal!”
Q: What is your match day preparation, do you have any superstitions and how has it changed throughout your career?
Joe Hart: “No superstitions. My preparation evolved through the years, through football changing and being at different football clubs. As long as I’m ready to go 15 or 20 minutes before kick-off, I’m perfectly happy.”
Q: What is the one thing you’ll miss most about playing football?
Joe Hart: “Honestly, I don’t know and it will be a long time before I can answer that. I’m not missing it yet because I’m still 100% in.”
Joe, this isn’t a question. This is a thank you for all you have given us over the last 3 years. We appreciate all you’ve done for this club, and we can’t thank you enough. Always a Celt, Always our SUPER JOE!
Joe Hart: “The feeling is mutual! I can’t thank the club and the Celtic family enough for how they’ve embraced me and made me feel welcome from day one. I’ll always be a part of the club as long as I’m welcome!”
