Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland wants to oust Joe Hart and become England's No 1
Friday 6 November 2015 11:31, UK
Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland wants to oust Joe Hart and become England's No 1 goalkeeper.
The 22-year-old became the Potters' No 1 this summer following Asmir Begovic's transfer to Chelsea, and he has had an impressive season under boss Mark Hughes.
Butland became the youngest goalkeeper to play for England's seniors when he made his debut at 19 in August 2012, and he made a second start against Lithuania last month.
Speaking exclusively to Sky Sports, Butland poke of his respect for "role model" Hart but he does not want to wait until the 28-year-old retires to be Roy Hodgson first choice.
"Joe is someone I have a massive amount of respect for. He came to Birmingham when I was 15-16, on loan for year, and he was incredible," Butland said.
"Since then he's been my role model and someone I try to emulate. But things have changed a bit since then so I'd like to keep performing and try and put pressure on him in that squad for sure.
"I'm very much behind him in terms of experience so I'm not going to bite off more than I can chew. My ambition is to be England No 1 and I want to do that before Joe retires. I don't want to be waiting that long and I hope it's not the case.
"I haven't spoken to Roy about things like that because its not time to do it. It wouldn't be respectful to Joe, who doesn't deserve to give the time up. But I've got to make sure my performances stay high for when the time comes.
