David James: 'Joe Hart is better than Iker Casillas'

Former Manchester City goalkeeper David James has said that current Citizens and England number one Joe Hart is better than Spanish keeper Iker Casillas.

Casillas, who captains and has been Real Madrid's first-choice keeper since 1999, won both the 2010 World Cup and 2008 European Championships with Spain and is considered to be among the world's greatest goalkeepers.

"I can see Joe being England's number one for many years, like Iker Casillas in Spain," he told The Sun. "The difference is, Joe is better than Casillas.

"I was at Manchester City when Joe joined. Physically and technically, Joe is far superior to most of the keepers out there. I don't see anyone better than Joe Hart. He can do all the stuff you expect from a top, top keeper.

"How old is he? 24? I made my debut for England at 27. But I only played one game before I was 30 and the other 52 after that. Joe has time on his side and is on the verge of big things with Manchester City."

James's current club, Bristol City, are currently one place outside the relegation zone in the Championship.