David Moyes: Why I turned down signing Joe Hart '“ but hope to have England No 1 in squad soon

David Moyes has revealed he turned down the chance to sign England No 1 Joe Hart '“ but hopes he will soon have the Three Lions' first-choice goalkeeper in his squad.
Jordan Pickford and Joe HartJordan Pickford and Joe Hart
Jordan Pickford and Joe Hart

Hart was made available in the summer transfer window when Pep Guardiola made it clear he was not a part of his plans at Manchester City.

Sunderland were linked with the goalkeeper after Vito Mannone – who started the season as Moyes’ first choice – suffered an elbow injury.

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But Hart eventually joined Serie A side Torino on a season-long loan deal with Moyes revealing he didn’t want to stunt the progress of youngster Jordan Pickford.

“When I arrived, Vito Mannone was probably the No 1 on experience but his injury meant we needed to turn to Jordan and he has stood up to all we’ve asked of him,” Moyes said.

“I could have brought in Joe Hart, we thought he would have been ideal for us, but I had to think of Jordan’s progression too and he hasn’t let us down.”

Ironically, Pickford will be on the bench tonight when England take on Scotland, with Hart set to start between the sticks.

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But Moyes believes the Washington-born youngster has all the attributes to claim the Three Lions spot from his more experienced rival.

“Hopefully he will become England’s No 1 for the future, I don’t see why not,” he added.

“He has the attributes and if he keeps his attitude of working hard, he won’t go far wrong.”