Joe Hart says he will step up to the penalty spot if his country need him on Sunday.

All eyes are on City’s number one this morning after he admitted he would be willing to take a penalty against the Italians when England face the Azzuri in the quarter finals of Euro 2012.

The Independent reports that Hart is hopeful it won’t come down to that, but that he would have no problem stepping up, if required.

“Hart was a star performer in the Under-21s team that was the first England side to win a penalty shoot-out since Euro 96 when they overcame Sweden in the European Championship semi-final three years ago, saving one and converting his own spot-kick,” writes Sam Wallace.

Meanwhile, The Sun reports that England goalkeeping legend David Seaman - the only English keeper to win a penalty shootout - wants Joe Hart to share his own crown as “penalty king.” 

 

I’d love to see my record equalled. It’s about time we won another shootout. I’d love us to beat Italy on penalties. In fact, I would love us to win on anything.

 

...David Seaman...

Joe will of course come face to face with City team mate and Italy striker Mario Balotelli on Sunday and although they are known to share a joke, Sky Sports suggests that any “banter,” between the pair has been put “on hold,” until the tournament is over.

Elsewhere, goal.com’s Andrew Kennedy suggests City are readying a bid for Liverpool’s Martin Skrtel.

There have been various reports linking the Slovakian defender to the club and the website hints that a deal could be done when the 27-year-old returns from honeymoon.

Remember we will be first to tell you if any business is done in the coming weeks.