Hart plays down expectations on new England stars
Steve Griffiths
England goalkeeper Joe Hart insists it is too early to start tagging
his generation as the players to breathe new life into Fabio Capello’s
team.
Hart marked his first competitive start for England with a superb
display in 4-0 win over Bulgaria at Wembley, while the international
novices Phil Jagielka, Gary Cahill and Adam Johnson also impressed in
the Euro 2012 qualifer.
After England’s dismal displays at the World Cup, the so-called
golden generation of John Terry, Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand and Steven
Gerrard were widely written off and there is a growing appetitie for
Capello to overhaul his squad.
Changes
The England coach has yet to make sweeping changes but the
performances of Hart and company in the absence of the injured Terry,
Lampard and Ferdinand suggests there is hope for the future.
Manchester City star Hart made a string of fine saves at crucial
moments to preserve England’s advantage before they eventually killed
off the Bulgarians.
But Hart, who has just five England caps, is wary of being burdened
with too much expectation at this early stage of his career.
The 23-year-old said: “There are some experienced players who have
done really well down the years and they have earned their place so it’s
a big shout to say the next generation is ready to take over.
“It was nice to do my little bit but I thought all the defenders did
brilliantly. Jagielka was great from the off and Gary Cahill did really
well when he came on and made a great block before the fourth goal.”
Hart’s impressive performances on loan at Birmingham last season
pushed him him into England’s squad for the World Cup, but Capello opted
to select David James and Robert Green ahead of him in South Africa.
With James and Green now consigned to international exile, the
opportunity is there for Hart to fulfil the praise of his idol David
Seaman. The Arsenal legend claims Hart can be England’s goalkeeper for
the next decade.
Honour
“He is a guy I look up to and respect massively,” Hart said. “For him
to even mention my name is a great honour. I’m just going to do my best
whenever I play for my club or country and try to push on.
LONDON, Monday (AFP) |