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Blues land Hart
Manchester City, 12:09, June 24, 2009 ,
Manchester City keeper Joe Hart has joined Birmingham for a season-long loan deal after losing his top spot at Eastlands.
Hart, who is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the game, will spend the 2009/10 season with the Premier League newcomers as he looks for first team football after losing his place at City to Shay Given.
City boss Mark Hughes believes the England Under-21 keeper will benefit from his year at Birmingham, he told the club's official website: "I have always said that Joe is a really good young keeper, and his talent was obvious to (goalkeeping coach) Kevin Hitchcock and I from the outset.
"His contribution to the team prior to Shay Given's arrival was fantastic, but by loaning him to Birmingham, he will add invaluable experience to that already gained here at City.
"I know he will relish the prospect of regular Premier League action, which is vital at this stage in his career."