Celtic have continued to enjoy notable success during Ange Postecoglou’s tenure thus far, with one key feature of the Parkhead outfit’s recent imperious run of form having been the performances of experienced goalkeeper, Joe Hart.
The former England number one had seemingly been on something of a decline following his exit from Manchester City back in 2016, having flitted between the likes of West Ham United, Torino, Burnley and Tottenham Hotspur in the years since after failing to truly find a settled home.
The decision to make the move to Glasgow, however, has sparked something of a resurgence for the Shrewsbury-born colossus over the past 18 months or so, with the veteran ace having played a vital role in last season’s title success, keeping 19 clean sheets from his 35 top-flight outings.
That consistency has continued this time around with the 35-year-old conceding just 13 goals in 15 Scottish Premiership appearances in the early months of the current campaign, ensuring his overall record with the Old Firm giants stands at 32 clean sheets from 75 games across all fronts.
Having been a “really great signing” for the Hoops – according to pundit Alex McLeish – the 6 foot 5 titan looks set to continue as the main man between the sticks for Postecoglou’s side over the next few seasons, with his current deal running until 2024.
Due to his advancing years, however, there may well have to be a consideration with regards to who will eventually replace the 75-cap gem in the sticks in the long term, with it yet to be seen just how long Hart can continue to perform.
If the Scottish champions are looking for an heir to the former Etihad hero they could well find one in the form of 18-year-old sensation, Josh Clarke, with the teenager already making his presence felt since his arrival in Scotland from Glenavon over the summer.
The former Chelsea and Bournemouth youth product – who joined Celtic on a two-year deal back in August – is no doubt a player tipped for big things, having already earned a call-up to Northern Ireland’s senior squad earlier this year.
Speaking at the time of that promotion, Clarke’s former teammate Mark Haughey had notable praise for the exciting asset, with the defender stating:
“Josh has been absolutely fantastic. Although he has bags of experience already in a professional set-up, he is an absolute credit to himself and his family. For a 17-year-old to come in and perform the way he has speaks volumes about the talent and character of the lad.
“And in terms of ability, there is no doubt in the near future you will see him playing for Northern Ireland’s senior side or in professional football. He is very, very composed. Even for someone who was coming into a new set-up at Glenavon, I have been impressed by how mature he is for such a young lad.
“And also the pure ability he has as a goalkeeper. He gives defenders so much confidence. Knowing Josh is behind you gives you that added belief. And to perform the way he does at that age is just phenomenal.”
After making six senior appearances during his time at his former club, Clarke has now gone on to begin to impress for Celtic’s ‘B’ team, keeping four clean sheets in just seven Lowland League outings this season.
That impressive start to life in Glasgow has raised hopes that the Northern Irishman can go on to flourish over the next few months and years, with the aim for him to eventually step into the shoes of Hart in the future.
