Taylor accepts number 2 role

Maik Taylor admits the form of on-loan goalkeeper Joe Hart has made it easier to accept losing his first team spot at Birmingham this season.

And Northern Ireland number one Taylor believes Hart deserves a World Cup spot with England after his form with Blues during a season long-loan from Manchester City.

Taylor played a major role in City gaining promotion to the Barclays Premier League last season but has only made a handful of appearances during the current campaign.

He said: “It makes it slightly easier to accept not being in the side when the guy in your position is doing so well.

“It’s so frustrating not playing. But Joe, through his performances, is making it impossible for the manager to overlook him.

“There’s certainly no room for me knocking on the manager’s door at the moment, that’s for sure.

“Joe has done exceptionally well and definitely deserves his chance with England. He deserves to be pushing on the door for the World Cup. He’s been fantastic for us.

“We know Fabio Capello and Ray Clemence have been to watch him a number of times and he has done exceptionally well. He has not put a foot wrong. He is doing everything he can.”

Taylor will hold talks in the next few weeks about his own future with Blues manager Alex McLeish praising his professionalism and indicating he will be offered a new contract.

The former Fulham keeper said: “My contract is up for renewal and it’s very nice of the manager to say kind words about me which I’m very glad to hear. I am fit and well.

“We’ll sit down and talk about a new deal at some stage. I’m very settled at Birmingham. I’ve been here for many years and my kids are settled at school.”