Hart relishes Wembley trip
Shropshire's Joe Hart is hoping to secure his place in English football history by appearing in the opening match at the new Wembley tomorrow. Shropshire's Joe Hart is hoping to secure his place in English football history by appearing in the opening match at the new Wembley tomorrow. The former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper is in the under-21 squad who meet Italy tomorrow lunchtime in what will be the first competitive match to be held at the much-talked about venue. Hart is likely to find out today whether he will feature in the matchday squad named by another Shrewsbury man Nigel Pearson, who is taking charge of the team for the first time with official caretaker manager Stuart Pearce away on club duties with Manchester City. Read the full story in today's Shropshire Star
The former Shrewsbury Town goalkeeper is in the under-21 squad who meet Italy tomorrow lunchtime in what will be the first competitive match to be held at the much-talked about venue.
Hart is likely to find out today whether he will feature in the matchday squad named by another Shrewsbury man Nigel Pearson, who is taking charge of the team for the first time with official caretaker manager Stuart Pearce away on club duties with Manchester City.
Tottenham's Ben Alnwick and QPR's Lee Camp are also battling for the goalkeeping jersey.
But, having witnessed the venue at the first hand yesterday, Hart is hoping he is given the nod to play at least some part in the historic occasion.
"It's an unbelievable stadium," said the Manchester City 19-year-old. "It's absolutely huge and it was amazing being in there yesterday.
"Our coach drove all the way around the stadium on an underground track and then walking out there and looking at this huge venue was very special.
"The seats are fairly close to the pitch as well so it should create an unbelievable atmosphere.
"The dressing room and everything about the place is just huge. There is a bit of touching up to do but they have done a fantastic job with the stadium.
"We found the pitch was cutting up very easily but I'm sure that's something which will be sorted out.
"It would be fantastic to be involved so we will just have to see what happens. Scott Carson, who has been the first choice, is not in the squad so I think the rest of us all have an equal chance of playing."
Should Hart get the nod from Pearson, the 60,000 sell-out for this game - the allocation has been reduced until a safety certificate is issued - would represent the biggest attendance he has ever played in front of.
But the former Meole Brace School pupil is confident he can cope with the occasion. "Playing for Manchester City in the Premiership this season (against Sheffield United) should help me if I'm involved," he added.
"I'm just determined to enjoy the occasion and do as well as I can."
By James Garrison