Fraser Forster’s hopes of getting a full England cap increased last night as Joe Hart lost four goals in the defeat from Sweden.
Twelve months ago the Manchester City number 1 was untouchable as he helped Roberto Mancini’s side towards the Premiership title and claimed the England spot with a mixture of inspired saves and supreme confidence.
In recent months, barring an incredible display against Borussia Dortmund, that confidence has been increasingly questioned with Hart conceding a number of debatable goals.
Forster and Norwich’s John Ruddy are waiting in the wings for the chance to impress with the Celtic keepers displays against Barcelona pushing his case for an England place.
England’s next match is at Wembley in February against Brazil with the calls starting to go up to see what Roy Hodgson has as back-up if Hart’s form continues to waver.
Writing in the Daily Mail Neil Ashton asked:”Roy Hodgson has other keepers, John Ruddy and Fraser Forster were both on the bench, and it is a wonder that England’s manager had not called upon them.
“Against Brazil in February, it may be time to look at alternatives.”
He added: “This is where the hard-work starts, keeping his head down after a disappointing performance in this prestige friendly.
“What a mistake to make in the final minute, rushing out of his penalty area and failing to clear his lines with that awful header.
“When it felt to Zlatan Ibrahimovic there was only one option and his outrageous, angled strike has embarrassed the England keeper.
“This has been on the boil for some time, with his performances for club and country under scrutiny for the first time in his career.”
In The Sun Ian Wright asked: “What happens if he picks up an injury in the future? Who can Hodgson call upon then? Where can he turn for a replacement keeper with that experience of international football?
“Last night’s game was made for letting Joe have a breather.
“What about allowing Fraser Forster a chance to show what he could do after his heroics for Celtic against Barcelona last week?
“That could only have been good for the squad in the long run. We gained absolutely nothing by starting Joe again in Stockholm and he did not have one of his better games.”
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Pardew, how do you feel, fanny?