Johnson wants Hart to stay

Defender impressed by team-mate's performances

Last updated: 14th January 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Johnson wants Hart to stay

Hart: Impressing at Blues

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Roger Johnson wants Birmingham to retain the services of Joe Hart for at least another season.

The goalkeeper has made a massive impact at St Andrews since arriving on a season-long loan from Manchester City last summer.

His performances have been hailed as one of the key reasons why Blues have climbed to eighth place in the Premier League table and he is being touted for a place in England's World Cup squad.

Johnson remains hopeful the 22-year-old could yet sign a permanent deal at St Andrews and insists he would be a popular addition to the squad.

Good saves

The defender said: "The boys would welcome Joe on loan for another season, if not to sign permanently. Definitely.

"He is a good lad, nice to have around, works hard, plays well, so, yes, it would be a great signing for us.

"Hopefully it will happen. As long as we have got him (even if on loan again) that is the main thing.

"It is tough to find a keeper who does well week in and week out so I am pretty sure that will be the gaffer's number one to sort out

"Joe is doing well and is keeping us in a few games. That is what he gets paid for and he has made some good saves in recent weeks."

England bid

England's goalkeeping options have drawn much debate ahead of their trip to South Africa but Johnson believes Hart would be more than capable of taking on the role.

"Can he be England's World Cup number one? Why not?" He added.

"If you look at all the statistics and records relating to keepers this season, Joe is top of them so there is no reason why not.

"Also, Fabio Capello is a manager who goes on form - so why not?"