Manchester City manager Mark Hughes insists that Joe Hart – currently on loan with Birmingham City – will not be joining Alex McLeish’s side on a permanent basis.
The former Blackburn Rovers boss maintains that the young shot-stopper was sent to St Andrew’s only to continue his development, after he lost his place in the first team to Shay Given last season.
The 22-year-old has since gone on to be a big hit at Brum, helping his side into sixth place in a scorching run of eight games unbeaten, with five consecutive victories.
However, Hughes has warned the West Midlands outfit not to get too attached to Hart, who already has an England cap to his name.
“We allowed Joe to go because we felt it was important that he played regular football,” the Welshman said, according to the Press Association.
“He was frustrated to lose his place when Shay came but we have huge regard for his ability.
“We felt it was important for him to continue to develop and improve. He wasn’t going to do that outside the first team here, so we decided the best course of action was to let him get some experience elsewhere.
“But our view on Joe has not changed. He is an outstanding ‘keeper and we are pleased that he is a Manchester City player.”
Adithya Ananth, Goal.com UK
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
