Arsenal legend Ian Wright has blasted Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini over his public criticism of Joe Hart.

Wright wrote in The Sun: "I'm absolutely amazed Mancini has singled out goalkeeper Joe Hart.

"Mancini got stuck into Hart for an admittedly poor performance in Saturday's 3-1 loss at Southampton.

"I'd have expected Mancini to maybe have a word in private but it was strange for him to bash a player who is still relatively young at 25.

"What the Etihad boss hopes to get out of this public caning, I simply don't know.

"Mario Balotelli got away with all sorts of things during his time at City, while Carlos Tevez's attitude towards life in Manchester has not always been great. The only thing you can accuse Hart of is being too honest in some post-match interviews.

"I find this refreshing as he clearly cares about the team. I'm sure most City fans will like the fact he doesn't like losing. Hart has been solid and saved City on plenty of other occasions and I would have expected Mancini to be a bit more understanding.

"His comments were baffling and I fear there could now be a problem between the manager and his player."