Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart now knows when his final professional game of football will be – the Scottish Cup Final on May 25th.
Back in February, Hart announced his retirement will come at the end of this season but it had been unclear whether it would be in the last Scottish Premiership match of the campaign or the showpiece May final.
Hart’s efforts in today’s dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Aberdeen in the semi-final means that – should he stay injury-free and in form – the veteran shot-stopper will make his big goodbye at Hampden.
The Celtic goalkeeper made several saves during the 3-3 draw that led to penalties, before taking and missing his own spot-kick and making the save from Killian Phillips to secure progression into the final, where Hearts or Rangers await.
Former Bhoy Liel Abada was clearly loving his heroics watching on from the USA and took to Instagram to respond to Hart’s “May 25th” message, stating: “The best!”
Joe Hart always lined up for 5th Celtic penalty
Meanwhile, Brendan Rodgers has shared that Hart was always going to take the fifth Celtic penalty in today’s shoot-out. The Celtic boss says it’s something that was being worked on at Lennoxtown this week.
He stated in a post-match media conference [PLZ Soccer]: “We looked at penalties during the week and Joe was always designated to take the fifth. But his mentality allows him to not let it bother him and we saw what happened in the end. He missed one, but he still ended up the hero.
“Joe’s worked a lot on the mental side of things for a long time now. He’s a very positive, upbeat character. If he has the confidence and he shows he can take them, you have to let him go. Though maybe a bit more practice before next time.”
It would be quite the sight to see Hart line up and take another penalty for the Bhoys if next month’s final also goes to a shoot-out. The drama would be taken to new heights.
Hart’s retirement tour is becoming pretty box office and if he can secure two bits of silverware in his last six matches, his long, successful career will end fittingly and perfectly.