Juventus and Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon has praised Joe Hart after the star was dropped by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

The Spanish coach has elected to field reserve goalkeeper Willy Caballero ahead of Hart in City’s competitive fixtures so far this season, while Barcelona goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has rumoured to be on City’s radar.

Buffon, however, is confident the England shot-stopper can regain his place in the side, just as he did after being dropped by Manuel Pellegrini following poor form in the 2013-14 season.

‘[Hart] has been in this position before, he was dropped two or three seasons back, and then when he returned he played some of the best football of his career,’ the Italian told Goal.

‘The ability is there, we know he has that, but just as importantly he has character – and that is one of the most important qualities you can have as a goalkeeper.’

The world cup winner is adamant that Hart is one of the best goalkeepers on the planet and insists there are only two goalkeepers on a noticeably higher level than the 29-year-old.

‘De Gea and Neuer are the two outstanding goalkeepers right now, after that there is not anybody who is on an obvious higher level than Hart.

‘He has many years of being a great goalkeeper ahead of him – no matter if they are at Manchester City or anywhere else,’ Buffon concluded.

Hart made 35 appearances for City in the Premier League last season.