As the countdown continues to this Saturday’s Legends Charity Match at Celtic Park (September 6), Joe Hart spoke to Celtic TV about his excitement on returning to Celtic Park, and the importance of the funds being raised through the match in support of Celtic FC Foundation. The former Celtic goalkeeper joins a host of other Paradise favourites as he pulls on the jersey for the first time since ending a glittering career at the end of the 2023/24 season. Speaking of his return to Paradise, he said: “I can’t wait. I’ve come back a few times to work and I came back for pleasure also because it feels like somewhere that I’ll always enjoy coming back to. “But walking out on the pitch again will be an even greater experience, and I’ll obviously want to do well, as it’s still in me to want to do my best. “I was lucky enough and privileged enough to play in Soccer Aid recently. That was my last game of football and I’ll be treating this game in the same way. ‘We’re here to celebrate, have fun and raise plenty of funds but, ultimately, I’m in goal and I’m trying to keep the ball out.’ “The connection I had with the fans and the club was amazing. When I came to Celtic, I realised that people may not understand why I was coming up and I wanted to show that I just love football. I relish being part of somewhere that the fans love their team and it only works when you’re all together. “That relationship with the supporters grew and grew and was at its strongest when I left, ironically. That’s something which will never leave me and hopefully it will never leave them. “It’s a great squad we have for the match. I got to spend some time with Tom Rogic and appreciate him as such an amazing player and interesting person as well. I’m really pleased he is coming back because I know how much the Celtic fans love him. “Being in the same squad as Artur Boruc as well, I’m going to love that. I’ve crossed paths with a lot of the other guys, too. I played with Georgios Samaras at Manchester City, I played against Charlie Mulgrew while Stan Petrov I know so so well, and all the other guys who are coming will be fantastic, too. “So it’s nice that we’ll be on the same team and it’s all for a great common cause, in supporting the work of the Foundation. “I love how Celtic FC Foundation work and I worked really closely with them in my time at the club. They are genuinely trying to help the people in and around Glasgow and beyond. “The Paradise Pit Stop project for example, it is a real community and something that people can look out for and feel safe at. “I think that’s worth so much and it’s so important that they can continue to do that. If I can be part of it and help to raise funds for the Foundation, then everyone wins.” Funds raised through the match will focus on feeding people in need of our support, to reflect the heritage of the Club, primarily through the continuation and development of our Paradise Pit Stop project. Through the project, we provide a free warm meal and a selection of hot and soft drinks, four days a week, in a safe, non-judgmental and welcoming environment for individuals and families.LEGENDS CHARITY MATCH The Legends Charity Match this Saturday, September 6 (KO: 2pm), promises to be a fantastic occasion for all the family and tickets are priced at: Adults – £18 Concessions – £9 BUY TICKETS ONLINE MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY A range of Matchday Hospitality packages are available, starting at £42 per person. You can register your interest in these packages here or email: [email protected] Thank you for your wonderful support.FixturesCeltic Legends Vs. Manchester United Legends – Sat, Sep 6th 2025, 14:00
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