Jack Butland eyes Joe Hart challenge

Birmingham City goalkeeper Jack Butland has said that he wants to challenge Joe Hart to become England's number one.

The 19-year-old has enjoyed a quick rise to fame after being called up to the Three Lions Euro 2012 squad and representing Team GB at the London Olympics.

Butland is tipped for a big future, and the former Cheltenham Town keeper says that he wants to become his country's first choice between the sticks.

"I want to challenge [Hart] as soon as I possibly can," Butland said.

"Being the number one for England is something I have always dreamed of and Joe is there at the minute. Only one can play, so my target for the coming years is to be as big a challenge as I can.

"He knows eventually there will be competition whether that's from me or someone else. He's not the only goalkeeper in England. For me it's the target to test him at first and make him a little bit worried but eventually to try to take his place. I'm good friends with Joe but when it comes down to it only one person can wear the shirt and hopefully I'll get that chance."

Butland will fly out to Berne today ahead of England's friendly with Italy.