Throughout the early parts of this century England’s national players were overhyped and over rated, labelled the Golden Generation they consistently failed to meet expectations and in hindsight never lived up to the levels expected.

As the national team’s fortunes have continued to plummet the fan base has become apathetic to Roy Hodgson’s side. Many have now accepted that they are a mediocre side with mediocre players.

After his astounding save against Swansea, Joe Hart has been at the centre of some positive press in recent days. Dropped last year he has returned to the fore at Manchester City and has been one of their most consistent performers this campaign. However, is he undervalued by the fans in this country, is he the first of England’s ‘Underrated Generation’?

David de Gea has been in outstanding form for Manchester United and this has meant that the solidity of Hart has been overlooked at times; in a turbulent season for Manuel Pellegrini’s men he has been consistently brilliant.

For all of his performances this season many are still apprehensive about placing him on a pedestal. After all, the embarrassment of the Golden Generation has taught that traditionally we should be pessimistic about our talents but Hart is truly one of the best in the world.

His mistakes are quickly leapt upon but many are reluctant to highlight his qualities. When Pellegrini dropped the 28 year old, it made plenty of column inches; but his recent performances don’t seem to garner the same levels of attention.

To see just how brilliant the England man is, simply watch his performance in the Nou Camp in his team’s clash with Barcelona; he was a one man colossus that refused to cower in the face of the greatest strike force in world football. That night he consistently foiled Lionel Messi in one of the most memorable performances in Europe from not only an Englishman but from anyone in recent years.

Compare that to the ease in which Manuel Neuer, who is widely accepted as the best keeper in the world, was beaten in their recent fixture against the Catalans. As a nation we are quick to lavish praise on players from different nations but not quite so willing with English ones.

Considering the defence he has found himself behind this season, to have only conceded 38 league goals is a modern day miracle. Sergio Aguero’s pivotal role to this City side is well documented but Joe Hart is as vital a cog as the Argentinian.

Of course some would argue that to be classed as a genuine great, he needs to perform to a high level for his national side; but for the last two years he has comfortably been one of England’s star performers.

His performances over the last few seasons have put him in the equation of the world’s best goalkeepers and the national public should appreciate how lucky we are to have him between the sticks. This is not to say we should now level hyperbole at everyone born on this island, but we should not be so reluctant to recognise just how special this talent is.

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