Shilton backs Green as England No 1

17 May 2010 16:38

Peter Shilton believes the England number one shirt is still up for grabs ahead of the World Cup - but feels Robert Green has the edge over David James.

Portsmouth veteran James, 39, and West Ham stopper Green, 30, are set to battle it out to be between the posts for the opening game against the United States on June 12, with Manchester City youngster Jo Hart as cover.

However Shilton - England's record capped international with 125 - told Press Association Sport: "There is still a lot to play for, for different reasons, but for me Robert Green has not done a lot wrong."

He added: "David James has been out injured a lot this season, but at least he will be fresh.

"You know what you are going to get with David - he is one of the most naturally-gifted goalkeepers I have ever seen, however, you also know there is that element of calamity he keeps producing every now and again.

"To win the World Cup, you have seven games [to the final], and is he going to have one or two where he is not on form?

"That is why he lost his England place, so there is that element. With Robert Green, we have not really had that over the last 18 months.

"There have been a couple of moments, but he has made some great saves and has been solid."

Shilton, though, feels Hart, 23, could yet lay down a late challenge to both the senior keepers.

"[Fabio] Capello played Green in the last match, and it will be very interesting to see who he plays against Mexico," said Shilton. "If Joe Hart was picked, and played really well, then he would be right in the melting pot."

Source: PA