Former England number one Joe Hart has opened up about the abrupt end of his international career, pointing the finger squarely at manager Gareth Southgate.
The Manager Who Made Me Feel Important
Hart, who retired from professional football last year, enjoyed his most successful period with the Three Lions under Roy Hodgson. He earned 75 senior caps for England, making his debut under Fabio Capello in 2008 and establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper after the 2010 World Cup.
"I had my best times with Roy," Hart revealed on the Sky Bet podcast 'In The Mixer'. "I felt most established, I felt most important in the team." The former Manchester City star even captained the side under Hodgson's management, highlighting the trust placed in him during this era.
Capello's Faith and Southgate's Axe
Hart expressed gratitude towards Fabio Capello, who handed him the number one shirt despite the Italian's contentious reputation in England. "He put me in. He made me No. 1 after the World Cup in 2010, which was incredible," Hart recalled.
However, his tone changed dramatically when discussing Gareth Southgate. The current England manager dropped Hart from the squad, with his final appearance coming in a 0-0 friendly draw against Brazil in 2017. "Gareth came in, and as much as I enjoyed the early part of his tenure, ultimately, he binned me," Hart stated bluntly. "So he ain't getting no props from me."
Overcoming Challenges to Become England's Best
Hart's position as England's first-choice goalkeeper wasn't without its challengers. Ben Foster provided serious competition around the build-up to the 2014 World Cup, though Hart managed to retain his starting role.
He also faced criticism from Manchester United legend Roy Keane, who labelled him "cocky" and "arrogant" on separate occasions. Even Capello acknowledged Hart's confidence in 2010, noting the goalkeeper had previously thought "I am the best" but had improved his focus.
Despite these challenges, Hart secured his place as one of England's standout goalkeepers of the 21st century, with Jordan Pickford eventually succeeding him as the new number one under Southgate's regime, which has continued under Thomas Tuchel.
