Joe Hart silencing Celtic doubters as Brendan Rodgers' high standards just what enduring keeper needs

Joe Hart silenced the doubters with his inspirational Ibrox show.

But former Celtic No.1 Dorus De Vries reckons that, even at the age of 36, the keeper has the class coupled with the nous of Brendan Rodgers and Stevie Woods to keep getting even better. Hart’s experience and calm during last weekend’s 1-0 win over Rangers typified his general levels of display since signing at Parkhead two years ago.

Having excelled for Ange Postecoglou, the Englishman was amongst those who needed to prove themselves all over again under Rodgers. Hart wasn’t tip-top in the opening matches of the campaign and a couple of misjudgments heightened fan calls for Celtic to get a new shotstopper before the close of the transfer window. But Rodgers has stuck by him and the response has been outstanding.

Two terrific saves against St Johnstone 11 days ago were backed up by a polished show of composure and authority in Govan. De Vries isn’t shocked. He’s been a long-term admirer of Hart.

But, having been signed to Celtic himself by Rodgers in 2016 and working with the boss and goalie coach Woods, the Dutchman is adamant the current star can keep delivering and even improving under the new regime. De Vries said: “I don’t think you ever stop learning and, looking at Joe, I always liked him.

“He has so much experience and, importantly, he also has so much passion for the game. You can see it on his face when he goes onto the pitch and when he’s out there. Joe has that burning desire to always be the best he can be and that is what he has shown at Celtic.

“You like to see a goalkeeper with personality and he has it a lot. Joe is one of those guys who, even though he is a fantastic goalkeeper at the moment, he looks to get better and better and keeps