Gareth Southgate confirms Joe Hart will start against Malta

England manager Gareth Southgate has confirmed that Joe Hart will start Friday's World Cup qualifier against Malta.

The long-time number one had seen his position come under question in recent weeks due to his form for West Ham United, where he is currently on loan.

Hart saw one competitor for the starting berth pull out when Jordan Pickford withdrew due to injury, but Tom Heaton and Jack Butland are also pushing for a start.

However, Southgate believes that Hart is still England's best option between the sticks and confirmed that he will retain the gloves against Malta.

"I believe he's our best goalkeeper at the moment," he told reporters.

"It's going to be difficult tomorrow. [Malta] don't allow many chances – we have to take that challenge on."

Hart is now the most experienced member of the England squad following Wayne Rooney's retirement.