NEW Bhoy Joe Hart admitted he is anxious to get down to work and meet his glove rivals.
The 34-year-old former England international keeper agreed a three-year deal today after passing the formality of a medical test – and he is keen to kick off his new career at the Hoops.
Seventy-five-times capped Hart, who cost £1million from Spurs, said:” This is a great moment for me and I am absolutely delighted to be joining a club of Celtic’s stature.
“I know just how big this club is and of the incredible support that it enjoys and I can’t wait to play in front of the fans at Celtic Park. “I’m looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates now and getting to work with the squad and, in particular, the other goalkeepers here.”
Hart posted on his Instagram page: “Let’s go!” with a huge grin and a a thumb’s up sign.
The former Manchester City netminder has answered an SOS from the Hoops who have had problems with the No.1 position since Fraser Forster returned to Southampton last summer following another impressive loan term at Parkhead.
Vasilis Barkas was brought in on a £4.5million deal from AEK Athens, but has failed to convince while Scott Bain and Conor Hazard have not done enough on a consistent basis to take over the key slot.
Thirty-year-old Republic of Ireland midfielder James McCarthy has also joined on a four-year contract after leaving Crystal Palace at the end of last term, as CQN reported earlier today.
Ange Postecoglou, speaking to the club website, said: “I’m delighted that we have signed two top-class players in Joe and James. Both of them have a wealth of experience at both club and international level, and that is something which can only benefit the squad and I’m looking forward to working with both of them.
WELCOME, BHOYS…Celtic’s message to newcomers Joe Hart and James McCarthy.
“I know our supporters will be well aware of both players and I’m sure they’ll welcome them to the club and look forward to seeing both of them play for Celtic in the seasons ahead.”
Boyhood Celtic fan McCarthy, who also played for Wigan and Everton, added: “To have signed for Celtic is a brilliant feeling and this is a special day for me and my family.
“I know all about the club, the size of it and all the success it has enjoyed, particularly in recent years. I’m looking forward to pulling on the Hoops, playing at Paradise and helping the team deliver more success to these amazing fans in the seasons ahead.”
