Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given says Joe Hart deserves England recognition.

When Given arrived from Newcastle, Hart was loaned to Birmingham, where he has blossomed.

However, the 22-year-old will sit out the game at Eastlands on Sunday as it is against his parent club.

City number one Given, though, has monitored Hart's progress with interest.

"Joe has done really well and deserves to be playing for England," he told the club's official website.

"If he keeps his form there's no reason he shouldn't play in the World Cup. That can only be good for City."