Joe Hart has been the “unsung hero” for Celtic as they look poised to wrest back the Scottish Premiership from Rangers, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 35-year-old deserves “a lot of praise” for his adjustment to Scottish football after departing Tottenham.
Hart made four saves during the 1-1 Old Firm derby draw on Sunday (1 May) to all but end Rangers’ hopes of a title fightback.
Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart said Rangers had been tough opponents in “a tight game” but believes his side can be happy with where they sit after a 1-1 draw. https://t.co/sOixRiVwoc pic.twitter.com/bw5i4iGfOW
— STV News (@STVNews) May 1, 2022
As quoted by the Daily Record post-match, Ange Postecoglou hinted the former England number one could be first choice at Parkhead for “a lot longer”.
The Australian claimed Hart still has “more to prove” in football despite an illustrious career.
The former Man City shot-stopper is contracted until May 2024.
Whelan hailed the 75-cap star’s impact at Celtic.
“He’s been the unsung hero in this title win,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“With any good side, you need a top goalkeeper. You need
someone you can trust and rely on.
“You’re never going to saunter through games for 90
minutes without facing a shot, especially in the big Old Firm games.
“He’s always been a top player and a top organiser as
well, and he’s taken no time at all to adjust to the Scottish game.
“Celtic are so strong right down the spine of their side, and ultimately that is what has won them the title this season.
“He will take a lot of praise this season, and rightly so. When he’s been called upon, he’s been brilliant.”
Celtic lead Rangers by six points atop the Scottish Premiership.
This season’s title winners are guaranteed a place in next season’s Champions League group stage.