Hart - Johnson is the best

01 April 2009 19:11
Paul Hart believes that Glen Johnson is the best right-back in the country and fully expects him to add to his tally of England caps. The 24-year-old has been named in Fabio Capello's starting line-up for the key World Cup qualifier against Ukraine at Wembley on Wednesday. It is the third successive game that the full-back has started under Capello, therefore establishing himself as England's first choice right-back. The former Chelsea man's recent recognition for his country is the result of an impressive season at Fratton Park, one which may end in him being crowned the club's player of the year. Johnson's confidence appears to be so high at present that he even coped when Hart switched him to right-wing for the 2-1 win over Everton. "I have said before, Johnson is a top, top player, one of the best in England," he told The News. "When he played further up against Everton he was great. If you look at Leighton Baines' stats over the previous 18 games, what their lad does is get forward. "Against us, Baines, apart from his free-kick he scored from, didn't cause us any problems. "You look at Glen, he makes a goal, is strong and as an opposing player it's your worst nightmare. "This lad who is six foot, runs like the wind and has great ability as well, I think he is a marvellous player." Despite putting in an impressive performance in the more advanced role against the Toffees, Hart insists he will not be converting his charge into a winger. "I'm not sure about converting him into a right-sided midfielder. That's certainly not on the agenda," he added. "It was needs-must against Everton and we will have a look at what happens this week. "But it's obvious Glen is the best right-back in the country." Meanwhile, winger Jerome Thomas' injury nightmare continued after he limped out of a reserve fixture with a suspected hamstring problem on Tuesday. Defender Marc Wilson also hobbled off after he appeared to get a knock to his left leg.

Source: SKY_Sports