City duo back captain Hart

With John Terry having been stripped of the captaincy by the Football Association last week in an episode that ultimately led to Fabio Capello's departure as manager, England are looking for a new leader ahead of this summer's Euro 2012 finals.

The likes of Steven Gerrard, Scott Parker and Wayne Rooney have all been mentioned, but Barry and Milner feel Hart is another valid candidate for the post.

Although the 24-year-old goalkeeper might lack the experience of his fellow contenders, both insist the shot-stopper would flourish in the job.

Barry said: "I'd give it to Joe, my friend.

"Harty has been fantastic all season. It wasn't just against Villa (yesterday) that he's made a world-class save, he's done it in a few games.

"That is why he is being talked about as one of the best in the world."

Milner also feels Hart would be a success, adding: "It's nothing to do with me in terms of the decision, but he is a great character, he talks, he is not afraid to say what he thinks.

"I'm sure he is going to be England's number one for a long time, so he is as good a candidate (for captain) as anyone."

As to Hart's talent, Milner added: "He has been absolutely unbelievable for us this season.

"He's a world-class goalkeeper, definitely one of the best I've played with, and he is going to get better and better as well."

Wonderful reaction save

Hart again demonstrated his worth to City as he produced a wonderful reaction save to deny Darren Bent in injury time to give them a 1-0 win at Aston Villa on Sunday that sent them back to the top of the Premier League.

After a run of just one victory in their previous six away games, the result was a crucial one for manager Roberto Mancini's side.

"We played some great stuff early this season, winning games by scoring three, four goals. Now it's all about the three points," continued Barry.

"We've had a few scrappy games like this recently where we haven't managed to get three points, and even lost them, so it's all about the win.

"At this stage of the season any away game is going to be tough, so it was a massive three points for us.

"The away form has also been a bit up and down. People had started questioning it, so it was important to put that to bed with a win, and we did that well."

Milner echoed those sentiments, stating: "Three points is three points, and that's the main thing.

"We played well against Villa, and probably didn't score as many as we should have done, but that's how the season goes.

"You have suspensions, we've had a lot out recently, injuries as well, players away at the African Nations Cup, which is what football is all about and when your squad gets tested.

"So if you can keep picking up points when you're missing players then that is obviously a positive."