Hart stood his usual place between the sticks for the first half, but England’s no.1 was taken off at half time to give Ben Foster an opportunity on the international stage.
Ireland opened the scoring after 13 minutes, and Hart was left with no chance with a thumping header from West Brom’s Shane Long. The City keeper made an acrobatic leap towards the top corner, but was left clawing fresh air as the ball flew into the back of the net to send the Irish fans into raptures.
England equalised ten minutes later through Frank Lampard, and Joe had little to do for the rest of a first half which lacked decent chances.
James Milner was a late sub, coming on with three minutes remaining to make his 35th appearance for his country. Joleon Lescott and Jack Rodwell were unused subs, but will be aiming to win starting places for Sunday’s showdown with Brazil in Rio de Janeiro.
