Wayne Rooney full of praise for England 'keeper

Wayne Rooney hailed Joe Hart as the world's best goalkeeper after his stunning performance kept Manchester City's Champions League dreams alive.

Manchester United striker Rooney was quick to praise his England team-mate after Hart produced a series of world-class saves in a pulsating 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund at the Etihad Stadium.

Although City also created a number of chances, the 'keeper's performance kept them in the contest before Mario Balotelli snatched a first point in Group D with a contentious last-minute penalty.

Hart denied the German champions on eight occasions and Rooney was one of many observers hugely impressed.

Posting on his official Twitter account, Rooney said: "Have to say Joe Hart has been incredible. For me, the best keeper in the world."

Hart could do little to prevent Dortmund taking the lead just after the hour, although he got a hand to Marco Reus' shot after Jack Rodwell gifted the forward possession.

After that Dortmund stepped up the pressure but were unable to add to their lead and were left seething when Neven Subotic was harshly ruled to have handled at point-blank range from Sergio Aguero.

Roman Weidenfeller, who also had a fine game, could not save from substitute Balotelli from the spot and City escaped with a draw.

City boss Roberto Mancini said: "Joe Hart saved us from an incredible defeat because he saved everything and we should say thank you to him.

"I don't know if it is the best performance in football history but he did very well."

Despite Hart's brilliance, City have still not kept a clean sheet all season and the defence is a serious area of concern for Mancini.

The Italian added: "We didn't play well. We conceded a lot of chances to them and I am really disappointed by our performance.

"In the first half we had three or four incredible chances, but if you don't defend, if you don't run like Borussia Dortmund did, it is difficult.

"This is my problem - it is my job. I will solve this problem."