I remember the first time I faced Kasper Schmeichel back in February 2006. We were both teenagers playing our first professional games in League Two. Fast forward to today, Kasper is still going strong at 37 years old, just five months older than me.
Although Kasper left Leicester in 2022, he is still a force to be reckoned with. His strength as a goalkeeper lies in his physique and power. He is an exceptional athlete who is aggressive and assertive on the field. But beyond his physical attributes, it’s his mentality that has propelled him to success.
I had the privilege of playing alongside Kasper at City, and from the very start, we were good friends. He welcomed me on my first day at the training ground, a gesture that meant a lot to me, especially considering his legendary father, Peter Schmeichel.
Kasper’s journey to success was not easy, as he had to work harder than others to prove himself. He never rested on his laurels and was always willing to take risks to reach new heights in his career. His determination and work ethic set him apart as a top goalkeeper.
We both shared a strong work ethic and drive to succeed from our early days at City. While Kasper aimed to win the Premier League, my approach was to give my best every day, regardless of where my career took me. This mindset led me to success with City and beyond.
As goalkeepers, we understood the toll the game takes on our bodies, but our love for football kept us going. Kasper’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement is truly admirable, and I am glad to see him still thriving on the field.
Now retired, I look back on my career with pride, knowing that Kasper is carrying on the torch. His passion for the game and dedication to excellence make him a true asset to the sport. I am confident that he will continue to inspire others with his hard work and determination.
This interview with Joe Hart was conducted by BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan in Berlin.