Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart is set to grace the turf for one last time as a professional footballer this weekend before retiring from the game.
The former England international has six trophies to his name at Parkhead and could inherit a seventh major honour if the Bhoys can see off Rangers in the Scottish Cup final.
Hart has given three years of distinguished service to Celtic, racking up 63 clean sheets in 152 appearances across all competitions [Transfermarkt].
Becoming an iconic figure in Glasgow, the 37-year-old was honoured last weekend by the Green Brigade, who unveiled a stunning tribute paying tribute to his time at the club during the Hoops’ 3-2 victory over St Mirren.
Undoubtedly, Celtic are going to miss his presence between the sticks; nevertheless, the job isn’t done yet, and it is highly unlikely the veteran will relent until he secures another winners’ medal.
Now, Brendan Rodgers has shed some light on how the dressing room and Hart is feeling personally ahead of his final bow.
Brendan Rodgers on Joe Hart’s final Celtic appearance
Speaking to official Celtic channels, Rodgers revealed that his side are determined to help Hart continue his fairytale ending by securing Scottish Cup glory against Rangers.
The Irishman also pinpointed the strong internal mindset of his goalkeeper heading into the clash at the national stadium when asked about his last game in professional football.
He stated: “I think that will be there for Joe. I think there’ll be a certain understanding of this being his last professional game.
“But he’s he’s been absolutely brilliant in his time here and we would all love to to send him off into the sunset with another trophy to add to his collection and finish off what has been an absolutely incredible career.
“But Joe, likewise, is very focused. He’s won another league title and now again he’s lasered in on helping the team get this Scottish Cup.”
Celtic winning the Scottish Cup would be a fitting send-off
Rangers won’t be an easy task on Saturday; nevertheless, Celtic will be determined to finish the campaign with a domestic double, which would be a fitting send-off for Hart.
Bowing out an icon at Parkhead, he has come a long way from a man who, a couple of years ago, didn’t look to have a mass amount of security in the footballing world.
Immersing himself in life at Celtic, Hart has earned his place in the club’s illustrious history and will be remembered fondly by supporters.