Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart steps in as Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper coach in surprise Salford City appearance
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart has stepped in as Shrewsbury Town’s goalkeeper coach at Salford City for the night.
Hart was spotted in a Shrewsbury tracksuit on the pitch at Moor Lane ahead of the League Two clash.
The club confirmed that, for one night only, Hart is assisting Gavin Cowan’s side with their preparations, helping to warm up goalkeeper Matt Cox.
Boss Cowan said: “It’s nothing more simple than a mate trying to help mates out.
“I have spoken to Joe recently when I got appointed. Dave was in dialogue with him and we have been speaking about how just sometimes appointments take a bit of time.
“We were picking Joe’s brains on goalkeeper situations and it’s just a mate wanting to help mates.
“He offered to come down and be a part of what we are doing. It is just another confirmation of the class act that he is.
“He is a very humble guy and has stayed very grounded after having a lot of professional success over the years.
“Personally he is a fantastic guy. He’s not too far away - I know he is a busy guy - but it has still taken a lot to be here.
“But it was the first thing that he wanted to do - ‘can I offer my help and expertise’.
“He will be coming in to help us and really try to drive us towards three points.”
Salop are currently without a permanent goalkeeper coach following the departure of Brian Jensen. Former Town goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne has also been helping out in the interim.
Cowan added: “I think it will be a one-off. I am sure myself and the staff will be trying to persuade him otherwise, but we are hoping to make an appointment this week.
“Joe has been a really good shoulder to lean on to really try and understand what we want in and around the club and what is required having worked with so many top goalkeeper coaches.
“We are really thankful that Joe has taken the time to come and help us as mates.”
A camera crew has been seen following Hart at Salford as he films content.
Hart is well known in the Manchester area, having made more than 260 appearances for Manchester City, winning the Premier League twice.
Born in Shrewsbury, Hart was still a pupil at Meole Brace School, aged 15, when he was first named in a senior matchday squad as a substitute for Shrewsbury in 2003.
He went on to make 58 appearances for the club before joining Manchester City in a deal worth more than £1 million in 2006. His parents, Charles and Louise, still live in Shropshire.
Former Salop player Jamie Tolley, who Hart shared a flat with for five years, was delighted to see his good friend helping the club.
He said: “I caught him with him briefly, him wearing a Shrewsbury Town tracksuit, I never thought I would see the day.
“It’s brilliant to see. It took me back 20 odd years. Being here with Dave and Gavin, we all got a little bit emotional down there. It’s really good to see everyone.
“Looking at him out there with the goalkeeper’s it’s just brilliant to see, he is chipping in, doing his bit for the lads and his mates, and his bit for the club.
“I would imagine the players are loving it, the fact they have a former England number one there.”
