Joe Hart responds to critics after England win: 'You think I care?'

Posted Friday, October 06, 2017 by ESPN

England goalkeeper Joe Hart was adamant that he doesn't care about his critics after a stellar performance in goal in the Three Lions' 1-0 World Cup clinching win against Slovenia at Wembley Stadium on Thursday.

Harry Kane scored a stoppage-time winner for England to secure the three points and guarantee top honours in Group F and a spot at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

And Hart, 30, came up with some spectacular saves to keep Slovenia off the scoresheet before teammate Kane poked home from close range for the 1-0 win.

Following the match Hart, who has come in for criticism of his play for both club and country in recent years, said he doesn't listen to the naysayers.

"You think I care about them? I'd have a big problem if I cared -- apart from the guys in the dressing room. The team have always got my back and I have always got their back.

Joe Hart responds to critics after England win: 'You think I care?'
Joe Hart applauds the crowd after England's 1-0 win against Slovenia in World Cup qualifying.

"We have qualified for a World Cup with one game to go. Regardless of personal achievements, I think it's important that we smile. England have qualified for a World Cup and that's a big deal."

The match was played in front of a sparsely filled stadium and marred by a pitch invader, numerous paper planes being thrown on the field and a chorus of cheers from the home support when Raheem Sterling was substituted.

Hart, who currently plays for West Ham after a loan spell at Torino last season, acknowledged it might have been hard for their fans to endure, but remained upbeat about his teammates and the result.

"The guys were brilliant. We wore [Slovenia] down," Hart added. "It was difficult for the crowd -- we appreciate them coming -- but the game was difficult.

"To have Harry doing that in the last minute, and for Kyle [Walker] to whip it in for him, is a big feeling. I'm really happy."