Hart won his 52nd cap as England enjoyed a thrilling win over Slovenia in Ljubljana to end their first unbeaten campaign for 24 years - but it was no easy feat.
The hosts went ahead through Novakovic’s 37th-minute opener but England were much-improved after the break with two stunning Jack Wilshere goals putting Roy Hodgson’s side 2-1 up by the 73rd-minute.
The Slovenian’s thought they’d salvaged a point when Pecnik’s firm header gave Hart no chance on 84 minutes - but Wayne Rooney scored a decisive third just two minutes later to maintain the Three Lions’ perfect Group E record where they are no nine points clear of second-placed Slovenia.
James Milner was an unused sub.
Meanwhile Spain secured a crucial 1-0 win over Belarus courtesy of Silva’s 45th-minute goal. Earning his 91st cap for La Roja, Silva collected the ball at the back post from Cesc Fabregas’ corner before hitting a powerful drive into the next from six yards.
Silva almost added a second late on before picking up a yellow card and being replaced by Juan Bernat on 85 minutes. Group leaders Slovakia beat Macedonia 2-1 meaning Spain remain in second spot, three points behind.
Stevan Jovetic was not involved in Montenegro’s 3-1 defeat in Sweden.
