Alan Brazil has warned Joe Hart that the Celtic goalkeeper won't want to retire from the game by finishing second place to Rangers.

Philippe Clement's men currently have the advantage in the Premiership title race with 12 games to go. 

It looks likely that the fight between Glasgow's big two will go down to the fire for the first time in many seasons.

The keeper, 36, announced yesterday that he will retire at the end of the campaign after three years at Parkhead.

He was signed by Ange Postecoglou in 2021 and has comfortably held the No.1 spot since, lifting five trophies in the process since his move from Tottenham.

Addressing the topic on talkSPORT this morning, Brazil was in a cautious mood, as he explained his concerns that Hart will be unable to add to that tally before he calls time on his career.

Discussing the ex-England and Manchester City stopper's decision to retire, Brazil asked Ray Parlour: "Is Joe Hart up there with England's greats? Shilts (Peter Shilton), Ray Clemence, people like that?"

Parlour said: "David Seaman as well. England had that spell of good goalkeeper didn't they? When you go back. Some fantastic goalkeepers. Would you put him up there? I would probably say no. But what a career he has had."

Brazil then warned: "Sorry Joe. And he won't want to retire finishing second – will you Joe?"

Parlour responded: "With Celtic? Oh, it's close up there."

READ MORE: Celtic legend hails goalkeeper Joe Hart as £1m 'bargain'

Meanwhile, Pat Bonner reckons replacing him will be a very difficult task.

He said: “It’s good that Joe has ended any uncertainty over his future.

“He’s a top professional and now wants to do all he can to make sure his final season here is another successful one with Celtic.

“Joe came to Scotland and settled a situation at the club that was very precarious.