Jack Butland has admitted that he would like to overtake Joe Hart as the first-choice goalkeeper for England in the future.

Manchester City stopper Hart will be rested for tonight's final Euro 2016 qualifier in Lithuania, with Stoke City's Butland starting in his place.

Butland has admitted that he has looked up to Hart, who has won 55 caps for England, throughout his career.

"I'm really excited to be able to have the opportunity, I've had a good start to the season and I'm really happy to be in this squad. But ultimately I want to play, so I'm looking forward to it," the 22-year-old told the FA's official website.

"I want to be better than Joe. He's an incredible goalkeeper and I want battle him and I want to learn from him and push him on like he pushes me.

"I've known him for a long time and he's been my role model for years, ever since I first came across him at Birmingham. He was imposing, aggressive and brilliant at what he does. For me he has been a massive role model, not just someone who I watch but someone who I get on well with."

Butland won his solitary England cap to date in a friendly against Italy in 2012.

Written by
Steven Toplis