England 0 Germany 1: Phil Jagielka, Chris Smalling and Andros Townsend give full backing to Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart

Goalkeeper made a double save from Per Mertesacker before defender scored

Joe Hart makes a point at Wembley (Getty Images)

Joe Hart received the unequivocal backing of his England team-mates after making his first start in more than three weeks in Tuesday night's 1-0 friendly defeat to Germany.

The performance of Hart, dropped by Manchester City for a series of high-profile blunders, was one of the few bright spots for Roy Hodgson as England suffered successive Wembley defeats for the first time in 36 years.

Defender Phil Jagielka said: "I've backed Joe all the time, all the players have backed Joe all the time.

"He's been in for some criticism, some of it a little bit harsh.

"But Joe's a big boy and that's the only way he can prove his critics wrong by making some fantastic saves.

"He won't be getting that many pats on the back from the lads because we expect him to do it."

Hart made a double save from Per Mertesacker and Max Kruse before the Arsenal defender headed in what proved to be the winner from a first-half corner.

Jagielka's defensive partner Chris Smalling added: "I think he did very well tonight.

"He produced a couple of really good saves and bailed me out at one of the corners as well. I think he was terrific tonight."

Andros Townsend, who hit the post in the second half for England, added to the praise.

The Tottenham winger said: "He made a great save from the corner before the one they scored.

"He's been fantastic and hopefully he continues that form."