Despite the £6M capture of Shay Given in the January transfer window, Mark Hughes still firmly believes that Joe Hart has a major part to play in the future of Man City and England.

 

The 21-year old found life after first team football difficult at first but has since knuckled down and continues to work hard to improve his game. Hughes followed his belief that he needed an experienced keeper but maintains that Hart will be better for the break.

"Joe is going to be England's outstanding goalkeeper for the next 10 or 15 years“ said Hughes, "but it is right that we have been able to take him out of the fire, allow him to step back and see where he is.”

The possibility of Hart going out on loan was muted at Eastlands but there is no intention of letting him go permanently. With goal keepers maturing somewhat later than outfield players, the development of Hart and desire to retain his services is very much at the forefront of Hughes’ mind. He is aware that runs in and out of the team can damage young players beyond repair. “You can't do that with a goalkeeper - I don't want that to happen with Joe" said Hughes.