Celtic have announced the double signing of goalkeeper Joe Hart from Tottenham Hotspur and midfielder James McCarthy on a free transfer.
Hart, who has been capped 75 times for England, has signed on a three-year deal. Meanwhile, Irish international McCarthy joins on a four-year deal.
Celtic Sign Joe Hart and James McCarthy
Boost for Ange Postecoglou
It has been a difficult start to the season for new Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou. Poor results on the pitch and the lack of new arrivals have added to his frustrations.
However, the Australian manager will be delighted with is two new additions. They will add experience to a youthful group of players.
He 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.
“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.”
Celtic Will Hope Joe Hart Fixes Goalkeeper Issue
Celtic fans will hope that Hart finally fixes Celtic’s goalkeeper woes. Both Vasilis Barkas and Scott Bain have had opportunities to make the number one spot their own.
Both, though, have made huge errors in the first few games of the season. It was clear that a new number one keeper needed to be brought in.
Hart may have struggled for form in recent seasons and has had unsuccessful spells at Torino, Burnley, and West Ham. But he was a solid number two keeper for Tottenham last season, and Celtic will be hoping that form is temporary and class is permanent.
You have to remember this is a goalkeeper who was England’s number one just four years ago. Also, he is a four-time Premier League Golden Glove winner. He is undoubtedly better than Barkas and Bain and at only 34 years old, he has plenty more to give.
Hart will add valuable experience, which is needed during this transition period for the Hoops.
On the move, Hart said: “This is a great moment for me in my career 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 teammates now and getting to work with the squad and, in particular, the other goalkeepers here.”
McCarthy Joins Boyhood Club
Midfielder James McCarthy has been linked to Celtic for numerous years. Finally, he has sealed the move to the club he supports.
The Irishman was surplus to requirements at Crystal Palace at the end of last season. He has had injury problems including a serious tibia and fibula fracture which kept him out of action for a year.
He will be hoping to put those injury issues behind him and become a key part of Ange’s side.
On his day, McCarthy will be one of the best midfielders in the Scottish Premiership. Considering Celtic have signed him on a free transfer, it is a no-brainer to take a gamble on him.
McCarthy said: “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’s 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.”
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