England's players praised Joe Hart after he returned to action in 1-0 friendly defeat by Germany

 

Goalkeeper Joe Hart was backed by his England team-mates after his impressive return to action in the 1-0 friendly defeat by Germany.

Hart was handed his first start in over three weeks by England boss Roy Hodgson after being dropped by Manchester City and was one of the bright spots in a disappointing display at Wembley.
A string of high profile blunders prompted City boss Manuel Pellegrini to leave out Hart, but England defender Phil Jagielka felt he responded well to recent negative headlines.
"I've backed Joe all the time, all the players have backed Joe all the time," said the Everton player.
"He's been in for some criticism, some of it a little bit harsh.
"But Joe's a big boy and that's the only way he can prove his critics wrong by making some fantastic saves.
"He won't be getting that many pats on the back from the lads because we expect him to do it."
Hart made a double save from Per Mertesacker and Max Kruse before the Arsenal defender headed in the solitary goal from a first-half corner.
Jagielka's defensive partner Chris Smalling said: "I think he did very well tonight.
"He produced a couple of really good saves and bailed me out at one of the corners as well. I think he was terrific tonight."
Winger Andros Townsend echoed his team-mates' praise and expects Hart to rediscover his best form.
"He made a great save from the corner before the one they scored," he said.
"He's been fantastic and hopefully he continues that form."