England captain Steven Gerrard believes that goalkeeper Joe Hart has the "character" to play through the criticism that he has received for his recent performances.

Hart has been below his best in Manchester City's recent matches against Bayern Munich and Everton, but Gerrard insists that his international teammate deserves to keep his spot against Montenegro on Friday.

The 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder told Sky Sports News: "I think that Joe has set such high standards that and put in world class performances that people expect it all of the time, which is impossible.

"At the moment, he is going through a bit of a tough time, but he has the ability and the character to play his way through it.

"For me, when I've got Joe Hart behind me, I always feel safe. I have no doubt that Joe is a top goalkeeper and I hope that he's behind me in the next two games."

England will qualify for the World Cup if they beat Montenegro and Poland.