Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has set his sights on a long future with the Eastlands outfit.
Hart, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Birmingham City last season, has ousted Shay Given to establish himself as City’s number one during the current campaign, and he has also become Fabio Capello’s first choice in the England national team.
The 23-year-old, signed from Shrewsbury Town in 2006, has two years still to run on his current deal with City, but he admits he is open to penning a long-term deal if the opportunity presents itself.
Hart told ManC, the club’s official magazine: “If I was given the opportunity I would not hesitate in committing myself to this club.
“Lots can happen in football I suppose but at this moment I am taking it season by season.
“I do not consider myself to be a top keeper just yet. I still have a long way to go before I could be considered in that way. You need to work hard and enjoy what you are doing.
“I am just mad about football. It is always on my mind. When I go home I watch football.”
And Hart revealed he is keen to emulate Premier League legends David Seaman and Peter Schmeichel over the coming years.
He added: “Only two (goalkeepers) stood out for me, David Seaman during his Arsenal years and Peter Schmeichel when he was over the road (with Manchester United).
“They were top class goalkeepers and legends of the game so I watched them carefully as a kid.”