Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart sends a heartfelt message to a bullied young fan to encourage him to keep playing

The Celtic keeper has become one of the club’s most popular players since making his move from Tottenham last summer.

And he is now doing his part to inspire the next generation of goalies in way that will give one young supporter a moment he will never forget.

Jack has been training as a goalkeeper but has been bullied for being small.

His dad contacted Joe Hart and was overjoyed to see the Celtic No1 send him a video message for his son.

Sharing the keeper’s video on Twitter, he said: “My wee fella has recently started goalie training and he’s been getting mocked and picked on because he’s small.

“[The fact he] wasn’t wanting to go back to something he was loving was getting to me.

“So I reached out to the legend Joe Hart and he sent him a video, wee man’s went back tonight buzzing.”

In the video, Hart can be seen sitting at home as he says: “Hey Jack, it’s Joe here mate.

“Just reaching out to say keep your head up, keep pushing and play in goal because you love it.

“That’s literally the only reason I play, mate.

“I know I’m very lucky to be playing in the position that I am but one of the main reasons that I play in goal is because I absolutely love it.
“I don’t care what anyone thinks, I don’t care what anyone says. I do it because it makes me smile.

“You do the same mate and you’ll do great.”

Fans loved Hart’s message and praised him on social media for encouraging Jack to keep playing.

@MRYFC2013 said: “What a guy Joe Hart is. He is so different to the way he was portrayed.

“Been a massive signing and one of the most important in a year when we have signed some amount of top players.”

@TamPostecoglou replied: “We’re so lucky to have this guy at our club, well done Joe.”

@StevenFriel91 commented: “Brilliant that! Joe Hart an absolute gentleman, and all the best to the wee man.

“Hope he keeps the head up and proves the bullies wrong!”

And @RhabP added: “What a man, like big Ange he has adopted our great club with all his heart.”