Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart needs greater English competition to keep him on his game.

Gordon Banks is ­concerned that a lack of ­international competition is undermining Hart after a week in which doubts were raised about the under-pressure ­England goalkeeper.

Banks, who was ­between the sticks for the Three Lions' 1966 World Cup triumph, believes the lack of quality back-up brought about by the "sad" international retirement of Ben Foster is key to this.

"I feel sad for people that do that, and I find it a little bit disrespectful [of Foster]," said Banks to the Sunday Mirror.

"All players should want to play for their country, and be proud of getting ­selected. Certainly in was dead proud to be walking out on to that pitch.

"While this is happening, there's nobody pushing Joe Hart. He needs somebody to keep him on his toes and playing good every game."