Source: Team_Talk
Hart plays down starring role
Joe Hart was modest about his performance after Manchester City started their Premier League season with a 0-0 draw at Tottenham on Saturday.[LNB] Hart pulled off world-class saves from Jermain Defoe, Tom Huddlestone and Benoit Assou-Ekotto in the first half as City survived an onslaught.[LNB]The 23-year-old got the nod in goal ahead of Shay Given but he refused to dwell on his own display.[LNB]He told Sky Sports 1: "It was just an enjoyable day, I love playing football.[LNB]"It was just another game I was looking forward to."[LNB]Of whether he believes he is City's number one goalkeeper, Hart added: "No. Shay Given is the other goalkeeper and I'm sure he'll get chances. We'll be pushing each other, he's a great goalkeeper."[LNB]While City struggled before half-time, they improved in the second 45 minutes with Shaun Wright-Phillips having the best of his side's chances.[LNB]Hart said: "We needed to get a result today as a big team. There's been so much speculation about us.[LNB]"We had to dig in in the first half.[LNB]"But we had a few chances and maybe we could have taken them."[LNB]City manager Roberto Mancini refused to say whether Hart had established himself as the team's number one following his display.[LNB]Of whether he felt vindicated by the keeper's performance, the Italian said: "The right decision is always after the game for the manager. I am happy because I have two good goalkeepers.[LNB]"I must make a decision and one strong keeper must go on the bench."[LNB]The former Inter Milan boss also stressed his side would improve once they had had time to play together.[LNB]"We need time. these players played together today and yesterday."[LNB]Tottenham counterpart Harry Redknapp acknowledged Hart's impressive display but he also praised his side's "fantastic" performance.[LNB]He said: "He was in great form, they've got two good keepers and the young kid had a great day today.[LNB]"But I couldn't have asked for more, they (Spurs) were fantastic.[LNB]"When you have to play silly midweek friendlies it tires you out.[LNB]"I think they ran out of a bit of steam but overall I thought it was a great performance from us, we were fantastic but we just couldn't get the two extra points.[LNB]"But if we play like this all season we will be right up there."
