... and he insists Simon Mignolet is now ranked right up there with him.
Joe Hart has been hammered by him manager, Roberto Mancini, for his horror show for Manchester City at Southampton on Saturday ... costing his team two goals, and possibly the Premiership title.
Craig Gardner: "People say that Joe is the best keeper in the world; I think that Simon’s definitely up there with the best
“I’ve been so fortunate throughout my career to play alongside some top keepers.
"I’ve played with Brad Friedel at Aston Villa and Joe and they’re great – and Simon is in the same category.
“His saves against Arsenal were immense.”