‘Top class’ – Exclusive: Bruce reacts as £70K-a-wk ace wants Bosman free to Leeds
Alex Bruce has urged Burnley goalkeeper Joe Hart to make sure he is guaranteed first-team football if he is to move to Leeds United this summer.
The former Leeds centre-back, speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, believes the 33-year-old needs to find a club where he will be the manager’s first choice between the sticks.
As revealed by Football Insider, the 75-cap England international would be keen on joining Marcelo Bielsa’s men this summer when he becomes a free agent.
It is understood the current Burnley man is looking to reignite his career in the Premier League and would take a pay cut to move to Elland Road.
However, after seeing Hart make just three appearances for the Clarets this season, Bruce believes he needs to be guaranteed regular game time to rediscover his best form.
“He’s had a difficult couple of years, Joe, but he was undoubtedly a top-class goalkeeper when he was younger and when he was playing regularly,” Bruce told Football Insider.
“If he did go to somewhere like Leeds, he’s obviously an experienced campaigner but I just think for Joe, he needs to get back playing on a regular basis again, which he’s not done for a while.
“For any footballer, whether you’re a keeper or an outfield player, it’s very, very difficult when you get dipped in and out. The one thing you need to do is play consistently to find your best form and I think that’s what Joe needs to do.”
Hart, who is set to leave Burnley after two years, has played backup to Nick Pope this season.
He has a total of 340 Premier League appearances under his belt and helped Manchester City to two top-flight titles.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites have been tipped to re-sign Ben White after a reveal from Phil Hay.