Thursday, July 19, 2018

Pep Guardiola gives Joe Hart verdict after goalkeeper joins Man City pre-season tour

Manchester City boss agreed to take former England ace to the USA and says he has been impressed with the player's attitude

Pep Guardiola has praised Joe Hart's professionalism during pre-season training.

And the Manchester City manager has made it plain that if the club cannot find a deal for the keeper – permanent or loan – he will be happy to keep him in his squad.

Guardiola axed Hart two years ago in a controversial move when he first joined the club, replacing him with Claudio Bravo, and upsetting many City fans, who regarded Hart as a hero.

City took the surprise decision to take Hart with them to Chicago, as they prepare for their tour opener against Borussia Dortmund at Soldier Field.

Last summer he was left at home to sort out his future – and fixed up a season-long loan deal to West Ham, to follow on from the season he spent at Torino.

The Hammers stay went badly for Hart as high-profile mistakes saw him dropped in favour of Adrian – and ultimately lost his place in the England squad for the World Cup finals.

But this summer, with no obvious solutions in sight, Guardiola was happy to accommodate the keeper in his travelling squad.

“Joe is our player, in his situation he's here and we try to find a solution - and if not he'll stay here,” said Guardiola.

“He is one of the most incredible professionals I've ever met, and what has happened in the last period was not easy for him.”


If Hart does stay, he could end up fourth choice behind Ederson, Bravo and youngster Danny Grimshaw, with Guardiola insisting that his keeper is good with his feet.

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