Source: Team_Talk
Big Eck sets Hart on keeping Joe
Hart has been one of the cornerstones of the Blues' remarkable run of 11 consecutive Premier League matches without defeat, equalling a 101-year-old top-flight club record.[LNB]The 22-year-old's latest stand-out performance came in Monday's 1-0 victory at Stoke where Hart produced two exceptional saves to preserve the three points following Cameron Jerome's winner.[LNB]Currently on a season-long loan from Manchester City, Hart's value is likely increasing all the time, which is why McLeish could move in January rather than wait until the end of the season.[LNB]Asked if he was concerned whether any fee might be too much come May, McLeish replied: "Possibly, but then maybe a bigger club might have their sights on him.[LNB]"We bring players in and try and improve them, and sometimes a situation like this arises.[LNB]"We've just got to keep going with Joe, and at the end of the season see what happens. He may feel he wants to come to Birmingham."[LNB]That may yet force McLeish's hand, strengthened by transfer cash to be made available by new owner Carson Yeung, if the speculation is to be believed.[LNB]"We need to discuss that. We've not discussed it at board level," remarked McLeish at the suggestion he could pursue Hart next month.[LNB]It is hardly surprising McLeish is not dismissing such a prospect after witnessing at first hand the progress made by Hart since his arrival at St Andrews.[LNB]Acknowledging Hart as a character, and not just a player, McLeish added: "He is conscientious, he cares, and he enjoys the support he gets.[LNB]"A lot of players can be sensitive, a little bit precious and see that as a criticism, but it's constructive.[LNB]"With some of the things we tweaked earlier in the season, he has improved, he has ironed out the rough edges. He is a great pro.[LNB]"Right now he just needs to focus on the next game, to work hard under (goalkeeping coach) Dave Watson and continue to improve."[LNB][LNB] Nottm. Forest v Birmingham. Click here to bet.
