Joe Hart has defended manager Roy Hodgson's decision to make six changes for England's goalless draw against Slovakia on Monday night.

Hodgson, who played an unchanged starting eleven in the first two games, was criticised for his team selection in the final group game which cost the Three Lions top spot in the Group B but Hart does not believe it had a negative effect on the team.

"Anyone on merit deserves to be in this team," Manchester City goalkeeper Hart said.

"I think everyone's aware of that, we're all aware of our positions.

"To go far in the tournament you need fresh legs and when you've got the quality that we've got I think it was the right decision.

"We'd love to have been stood here 2-0 and looking like an even better decision, but it is what it is. We're going to be fit and ready for the next game."