West Ham's Joe Hart ready for 'fight' to remain England's No.1 goalkeeper

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Simon Johnson6 September 2017

West Ham goalkeeper Joe Hart is determined to retain his place as England's No.1 ahead of the 2018 World Cup.

Hart, who is on loan from Manchester City, is coming under increasing pressure from Jack Butland, Tom Heaton and Jordan Pickford, while Fraser Forster is also still in contention.

The 30-year-old started both of England’s World Cup qualifiers - against Malta and Slovakia - but manager Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Hart’s position was under threat.

Hart faced criticism for the manner of Slovakia's opening goal on Monday night before the Three Lions fought back to win 2-1 at Wembley, with Stanislav Lobotka slipping a deft volley underneath the keeper's armpit from close range.

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But Hart, who has won 73 caps, says the challenge of retaining the No.1 kersey is inspiring rather than intimidating him.

"I’m representing my country and, as long as I’m fit and ready, I’m going to fight to play for my country," he said.

In Pictures | England vs Slovakia | 04/09/2017

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"There are five keepers playing in the Premier League, people who are more than good enough to wear the No1 jersey. I’m not stupid, I know that. But it’s a great buzz to be around these keepers and be around this competition.

"I can’t speak highly enough of how Jack and Tom were during the time with England and Jordan (who had to pull out with injury).

"All those three names are good enough to play. But they put aside their disappointment that they weren’t playing and we pulled together as a group.

"When the whistle starts for every England game, it is a big moment for me. Whether I play or don’t play, I will be trying my best for England."