Joe Hart has promised Celtic fans the ‘rust’ will wear off after making his debut for the club.
The former Manchester City ‘keeper started last night’s 4-2 Europa League third qualifying round first leg win over Jablonec.
Hart wasn’t overly busy in the Czech Republic, but didn’t look overly clever when the hosts pulled another goal back to make it 3-2 before Ryan Christie added a fourth late on.
Ange Postecoglou admitted it was unfair to throw Hart in so quickly after singing and just one training session with his new teammates.
Winger James Forrest, who netted Celtic’s third goal, spoke of how Hart’s arrival had given the squad a boost before he’d even played.
And the 34-year-old was adamant he wanted to play after a hectic build-up to his bow in green and white.
Having only been used by Spurs in Europa League and cup matches, Hart is confident a regular run of league starts for the Hoops will see him get up to speed in no time, and fans will see the difference in his performances.
He posted on Instagram: “Delighted, honoured , proud , to name but a few of the feelings I felt tonight making my @celticfc debut. It’s been a crazy few days but it’s all been worth it. Thank you for the welcome to your special club, I promise the rust will wear off soon and we can push on together. Well done to the team tonight … on to Sunday now.”
Hart will almost certainly make his Scottish Premiership debut at Celtic Park when Dundee visit this weekend.
The pressure is on for a home win after kicking off their league campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Hearts at Tynecastle last Saturday.
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