Casillas impressed with Hart

Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas has admitted how impressed he was with England's Joe Hart.

Casillas had never come up against the Manchester City shot-stopper until Saturday's friendly at Wembley.

And now the Real Madrid legend has faced him, he admits he was impressed after England's 1-0 victory.

Hart is yet to be on the losing side for England during his 15 caps to underline how impressive he has been for the Three Lions to date.

"It was the first time I have seen him and I was quite impressed," said 30-year-old Casillas, who has amassed an incredible 126 caps for Spain so far.

Serious player

"England have struggled to find the right keeper but he is a serious player.

"It is important for Fabio Capello to have the confidence in the keeper for the whole side.

"Hart has proved himself in the Premier League with Manchester City. He is a very confident boy and he uses that in a positive way."

And, in assessing the performance of a new-look England outfit, Casillas can see similarities.

"I would consider England to be where Spain were six or seven years ago," he said.

"They have a good mix of experience and youth."