Faith in Hart's heroics is boosted by Hodgson
Joe Hart Set to Shine for England in Euro 2012
As England prepares to face France in their opening game of Euro 2012, the spotlight is on goalkeeper Joe Hart. The Manchester City shot-stopper has been selected as the starting goalkeeper for the national team, a position he's earned through his impressive performances both domestically and internationally.
Roy Hodgson, the England boss, believes that Hart could be key to the team's success in the tournament. Hodgson's views on goalkeepers align with those of legendary manager Brian Clough, who placed great faith in them. Hart's saves, as Hodgson notes, are often beyond what a normal goalkeeper would produce.
Hart's confidence and optimism reflect the team's positive outlook for Euro 2012. He is confident that the England team is well-prepared for the France game on Monday and believes that they will give it a "real good go." The team's preparation indicates a strong team spirit and determination, which is evident in their recent wins that suggest they are in good form heading into the tournament.
England's top teams of the past have often had a goalkeeper considered one of the best in Europe or even the world. Hodgson has pointed out that this tradition continues with Hart, who has performed well for England when he has played. However, Hart's performance in the Euro 2012 campaign had its ups and downs. While he made the most saves of any goalkeeper during the group stage, his performance in the quarter-final, notably conceding a penalty to Andrea Pirlo, was seen as a low point and contributed to England's exit.
Despite these lapses, Hart's form with Manchester City has been exceptional, which helped him solidify his status as England's number one goalkeeper after the tournament. Nevertheless, his performances began to be questioned after mistakes in critical games, including during the 2016 Euros and a notable mishap against Iceland that contributed to England’s EURO exit. By the time Pep Guardiola took over Manchester City, Hart’s style—particularly his limitations in playing out from the back—put his future at the club in question.
However, Hart's exceptional saves can lift the team higher up and give confidence, as mentioned by Hodgson. The team will be united as one during the France game, with a great group of fans behind them. If Hart is in top form, England will need him for success in Euro 2012, according to Hodgson. A dependable goalkeeper, as Hodgson notes, can provide the backbone to a soccer team.
With the uncertainty surrounding Fabio Capello's successor now passed, England is ready for Euro 2012. The team's focus is on the France game, and with Hart in goal, they are confident of a strong start to the tournament.
England's goalkeeper Joe Hart, who has been in top form with Manchester City, will be crucial for the team's success in Euro 2012, according to Roy Hodgson. Despite a few lapses in previous tournaments, Hart's impressive performances in European-leagues, particularly in the Premier League, have solidified his status as England's number one goalkeeper.