Bristol City goalkeeper David James has backed West Ham's Rob Green to turn his past year around.
Veteran goalkeeper has faith in Hammers No.1's ability
Bristol City goalkeeper David James has backed West Ham shot-stopper Rob Green to turn his past year around by saving his club from relegation.
The Hammers No.1 is reportedly on the verge of quitting the international scene, with the 31-year-old now down the pecking order behind Joe Hart.
Green could become the third goalkeeper since last summer's World Cup to leave the scene, with Blackburn's Paul Robinson retiring fully and Birmingham's Ben Foster making himself unavailable to focus on his club.
If Green's side were to drop out of the top flight, it would cap a miserable 12 months after his gaffe against the United States last June in England's opening match of the World Cup saw him lose his place as first choice.
Green was condemned for his error and, despite showing signs of his quality between the sticks for the East London side this term, has been unable to halt their slide ahead of their make-or-break meeting with Wigan.
James, who took Green's place following his mistake in South Africa and has yet to retire from the international scene, was confident that his counterpart could prove himself again and was hopeful he could keep his former club up.
Exposure
"Rob is a decent keeper and, if you look at the current England side, Joe Hart has not had that sort of exposure yet," said James.
"Rob's had to face it and he's dealt with it very well.
"Many goalkeepers would have crumbled after what he went through.
"With West Ham being one of my former clubs, I'd love nothing more than to see them stay up.
"It would be even better if it was Rob who makes the save that keeps West Ham in the Premier League.
"It would see his year turn full circle and I'd be thrilled for him."
