By Frank McAvennie

2nd Oct, 2023 | 9:30am

Joe Hart told to 'take the hit' for Celtic as footage re-analysed - expert

Joe Hart should have “taken a hit” instead of getting sent off for Celtic last weekend.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hoops striker Frank McAvennie said Hart’s decision making for the challenge on Livingston’s Mo Sangare was “poor” and insisted the keeper should have putt his body on the line.

As shown on Sky Sports (23 September), the Hoops shot stopper was shown a straight red card following a collision with Sangare just outside the penalty area.

The former England international came out to meet the Livingston attacker, who was through on goal, but completely took him out.

The incident was examined by the VAR officials who did not feel onfield referee John Beaton had made a clear and obvious error.

James Forrest was sacrificed to bring on second choice goalkeeper Scott Bain who managed to preserve the Hoops’ clean sheet in the 3-0 win.

When asked what he made of Hart’s challenge on Sangare, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I thought his decision making was poor.

“I think he has been a wonderful goalkeeper for us, I think he has done brilliantly.

“He is not the best with the ball at his feet but he gets a lot more time at Celtic than he would at other teams.

“I just thought he did not have to come out. I do not know why he did not try to header it, take the hit himself and try to get Sangare sent off.“

In other news, Kieran Maguire urges Rangers to match Celtic as £40m news confirmed.