Johnson is all Hart for Blues

Birmingham defender Roger Johnson believes it is vital the club retain the services of goalkeeper Joe Hart – even if it is only on loan for another season.

Hart has made the temporary switch from Manchester City for the 2009/10 campaign to play regular first team football.

But his form has been so outstanding that Blues boss Alex McLeish believes his No 1 is a major contender to be England's first choice at the World Cup next summer.

Johnson has echoed those sentiments and highlighted the importance of keeping hold of the former Shrewsbury player for at least another campaign.

He said: "The boys would welcome Joe on loan for another season, if not to sign permanently. Definitely. He is a good lad, nice to have around, works hard and plays well so, yes, it would be a great signing for us.

"Hopefully it will happen. As long as we have got him, even if on loan again, that is the main thing. Joe is doing well and is keeping us in a few games. That is what he gets paid for and he has made some good saves in recent weeks."

"Can he be England's World Cup number one? Why not? If you look at all the statistics and records relating to keepers this season, he is top of them so there is no reason why not."