Gianluigi Buffon makes big claim about Joe Hart at Celtic

It was not a great start to the 2021/22 season for Joe Hart, as it looked like he was completely out of Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans at Tottenham Hotspur. Thus, it was not a surprise when he sought an exit and ended up moving to Celtic. The 34-year-old penned a three-year contract with the Hoops, who were in search of a first-team goalkeeper.

Initially, it looked as if Celtic had taken a risk on the former Manchester City star, who had not been a regular starter for a club for several campaigns. Thus, many questioned whether he was good enough to be a first-choice goalkeeper anymore.

Having left Manchester City, a club where he enjoyed legendary status, Hart joined Burnley and then played for Tottenham Hotspur as well. But he could not find his best form at either club.

Things have turned around for Hart at Celtic Park though, with the former Premier League winner proving his value to Ange Postecoglou’s team and has shown that he is still a top goalkeeper, and leader. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has made 29 appearances and kept 16 clean sheets thus far in the Scottish Premiership for Celtic. These numbers are outstanding for a player who was thought to be past his prime.

Gianluigi Buffon reveals why he believes Hart has succeed at Celtic

One of the all-time best when it comes to goalkeepers, Gianluigi Buffon, has heaped praise on Hart. As reported by the Daily Record, the Italian legend said:

"“The way Joe is playing this season is no surprise to me he has always been a great goalkeeper. He just needed a place to call home again.“He is a player I watched develop and I saw he had everything that was needed to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world.“It was not that long ago that I called him one of the top three or four goalkeepers in the world.”"

Buffon further added:

"“He made a couple of mistakes and people just decided he was not top level anymore.“He needed a bit of love to find his level again and he has obviously got that love at Celtic. The top player is back and it is good to see.”"

Hart has already established himself as the number one in Postecoglou’s side with the gloves. Initially thought to be only a short term fix for the club, it is very possible that he could end up getting a decent run at Parkhead. If he continues to perform like this, Celtic do not need to go after another goalkeeper in the near future.