Joe Hart may have moved on from Celtic, but his connection to the club remains as strong as ever.
The former Hoops goalkeeper was back in the conversation on Sunday after Celtic’s official account marked his birthday. Hart responded by reposting the club’s message, adding a simple but telling line:
“Thanks guys, great win”
It was brief, but it said plenty. Even from afar, Hart is still watching and still clearly connected to what is happening at Celtic.
8th March 2026; Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland; Scottish Cup Football, Rangers versus Celtic; Ex Celtic player Joe Hart in the Celtic end
And there was plenty to react to. Celtic booked their place in the Scottish Cup final with a dramatic 6-2 win after extra time against St Mirren at Hampden. The scoreline suggests comfort. The reality was far more chaotic.
Daizen Maeda had Celtic ahead inside the opening minute, pressing high and forcing the early breakthrough. Anthony Ralston doubled the lead just before half-time, and at that point, it looked like Celtic were cruising.
But the game turned. St Mirren fought their way back into it, with Mikael Mandron pulling one back before striking again deep into stoppage time to make it 2-2. From a commanding position, Celtic suddenly found themselves heading into extra time with momentum gone and nerves building.
Joe Hart’s Instagram Story
It was a real test of character. Celtic responded in emphatic fashion.
Kelechi Iheanacho made the difference, scoring twice early in extra time to swing the game back in Celtic’s favour. Luke McCowan added a goal in between kelechi’s double, and Benjamin Nygren completed the scoring as the Hoops pulled away to seal a place in the final.
It was a performance that summed up much of Celtic’s season. Moments of control, and major lapses.
Hart would recognise that pattern. During his time at the club, he became a central figure not just for his performances but for his leadership and connection with supporters. He remains a popular figure among the fanbase.
Celtic now move on to the final, where they will face Dunfermline, managed by Neil Lennon. For Joe, watching on, it will be another moment where his former club look to finish the job.
