Jack Butland eyes England number one spot

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 14 October 2015

Jack Butland reveals that he wants to challenge Joe Hart for the England number one spot following his first competitive game for the Three Lions.

Jack Butland has spoken of his desire to wrestle the England goalkeeping job away from Joe Hart.

The 22-year-old made just his second senior appearance for the Three Lions in their 3-0 victory over Lithuania on Monday, with England's spot at Euro 2016 already assured prior to that game.

However, Butland's performances for Stoke City so far this season have garnered praise, and he made no secret of his desire to become a regular starter at international level too.

"You've always got to back yourself. I am not someone who enjoys being on the bench. I won't kick up a fuss and I will always want the team to do well and always be a team man, but ultimately I want to play as well," Butland is quoted as saying by PA.

"Joe is a fantastic keeper, who I've known for a long time. Rightly so he is the number one - he is established in the Premier League, has over 50 England caps. It is very tough, he is almost an immovable object at the minute. But I want to be in the England squad, I want to play and there's nothing wrong with competition.

"Us being in that squad, I know he drives me on. During training sessions with Tommy Heaton as well, there's always comments flying about, helping each other, encouraging each other and it's a really good environment. I know I improve when I come away with England and hopefully I can have the same effect on some of the others."

Butland was forced to wait more than three years between his two international caps to date.