Joe Hart has been a regular for England since 2010, but his place in the team has come under scrutiny after some erratic performances at club level the past few years.

The 30-year-old was even dropped earlier this season at West Ham, with second choice goalkeeper Adrian taking his place.

With his inconsistency in goal, combined with a lack of playing time, it was a strong possibility that England manager would not call him up for the Three Lions' friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy this month.

However, Southgate decided to make room for Hart by calling up four goalkeepers, stating that his experience was the reason for his call-up.

"Clearly the number one jersey is up for grabs," Southgate said when asked about the goalkeeper situation after announcing his squad. "Joe has had a difficult period with his club and he had to miss out on selection a few times when David Moyes came in.

"He's got a great number of caps and he's the most experienced keeper in our squad so we wanted to keep him around."

WILL HART START AT THE WORLD CUP?

Southgate decided to give Jordan Pickford his chance against Holland on Saturday, and the Everton man did no harm to his chances of going to Russia as England's number one by keeping a clean sheet.

And with Jack Butland set to get the nod against Italy on Tuesday, what will happen to Joe Hart at the World Cup? Will he retain his place or will Pickford or Butland be given that honour?

If not, will he even be on the plane to Russia?

Well, according to the Mirror, Southgate has already made up his mind.

The Mirror state that whatever Southgate says about the number one spot, Hart will definitely not be starting for England.

It will go down to a straight fight between Pickford and Butland, with the Everton man currently in pole position.

However, Southgate will take Hart to the World Cup as his third choice between the sticks, seemingly deeming his experience vital.

With Butland and Pickford both yet to make double digits in caps for England, this could be considered a wise decision.

Hart has suffered a dramatic slide in form the past few years and would not be the right man to wear the number one shirt in Russia.

But, having been England's man between the sticks at the past three major tournaments and having racked up 75 caps, it would be wise to bring him along to offer support to the two inexperienced 'keepers.

Some may consider it a surprise that he's even going to Russia, but Southgate his experience could prove invaluable.