Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart has made it clear that stepping into football punditry won’t include taking advice from Roy Keane, the former Manchester United captain who once publicly labelled him as “cocky” and “arrogant.”
Hart, 38, retired from professional football last year and has since become a regular face on BBC’s Match of the Day, where he shares his insights on Premier League action.
From Premier League Glory to International Criticism
Hart’s football journey is storied. He spent 12 years at Manchester City, helping the club clinch its first two Premier League titles under Roberto Mancini and Manuel Pellegrini, before finishing his time at the Etihad on loan spells with Torino and West Ham.
Yet, one high-profile mistake during a 2012 World Cup qualifier against Poland — which ended 1-1 — led Keane to publicly criticise him.
At the time, Keane suggested Hart had grown “cocky” and was “relaxing too much” between the posts, later branding him “arrogant” and hinting he should even be dropped from the England squad.
Staying True to Himself in the Studio
Now fully committed to punditry, Hart insists he won’t let past comments cloud his professional judgment.
On the In the Mixer podcast, hosted by former teammate Joleon Lescott, Hart reflected on the criticism that haunted him for over a decade.
“I was really happy with how I behaved on the pitch,” he said.
“I loved the relationships I had with my teammates, and I loved the relationships I had with opponents.
I never wanted to cross the line with anyone.
I adored playing football, so how on earth could that come across as cocky? That was probably the first bit of negative press I got.”
Critiquing Keane’s Punditry Style
Hart didn’t hold back when talking about Keane’s approach to football commentary.
“He’s made it very clear that he just says things,” Hart explained.
“I’ve actually worked with him once. I was willing to figure out what kind of person he is.
Was this something deep inside him? He just says stuff. I doubt he even remembers that moment.”
For Hart, this contrasts sharply with the responsibility he feels in his new role.
“I take huge responsibility in my new role.
I know the impact of my words, especially now with social media.
I know how that can bring needless attention to someone who’s just minding their own business.”
A Pundit with Perspective
Hart’s reflections show a clear distinction between past criticisms and his current philosophy in the studio.
While Keane’s style might rely on blunt opinions, Hart is determined to provide measured commentary, valuing fairness and the influence his words carry in an era where social media amplifies everything.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn