Hart: Fan abuse part of the fun

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart believes the abuse that players receive from opposition supporters adds to the flavour of football.

Speaking before Sunday’s FA Cup derby against Manchester United, the 24-year-old said he gets some stick ‘everywhere’ he goes.

City have already given United a 6-1 hiding at Old Trafford this season, and the Red Devils go into Sunday’s game on the back of two consecutive losses in the Premier League.

“They (the United fans) are going to vent their anger. I happened to be standing near them so I am going to get it. I understand that as a keeper,” he said.

“It’s quite interesting to see what people come out with at times. People say crazy things. I’m like ‘whatever’. I don’t take that personally.”

“I get abuse everywhere I go, in the street or playing football, but it’s part of the fun. I don’t think anyone means it. That’s football and that’s why I love it.”

He added: “The Manchester rivalry is great. I love it. It makes the games what they are but I can’t get involved in that side. It’s not my business. I’m not trying to taunt anyone. I’m trying to win games.”