Southampton's Fraser Forster admits England are "lucky" to have one of Europe's best goalkeepers in Joe Hart - even if that puts an even bigger barrier in the way of his own international hopes.

The Manchester City stopper is Roy Hodgson's undisputed number one and, barring injury or suspension during Euro 2016, Forster and Burnley's Tom Heaton are both destined for a watching brief in France.

"He's obviously a fantastic keeper and I think he is showing year in, year out, for Man City and England how good he is," said Forster.

"He works really hard and it is obviously important as a group of keepers we pressure him and try to catch him up, but he has been fantastic how he has played in some of the Champions League games this year, making big saves in big moments.

"For me he is a top keeper in Europe. You look how good his distribution is, how good his shot-stopping is and how he makes big saves at big moments and we are very lucky to have him."

Forster played 87 minutes of the 2-1 friendly win over Australia at the Stadium of Light on Friday night, beaten only by Eric Dier's own goal, before making way to give Heaton a short international debut.

It is difficult to envisage the pair getting any game time at the European Championships, but that does not mean either will be taking it easy over the next month.

"You have to be ready because as a keeper you never know," Forster added.

"The perfect example of that was in Germany when Jack (Butland) got injured (the Stoke keeper fractured his ankle in the first half) and you have to go on.

"You just have to train as hard as you can and be ready in case that moment comes along.

"That won't be an issue for me. You're used to being number one at your club and that is how we train and it is just important we approach it and you are ready in case."

As one of the squad's goalkeepers Forster has had chance to witness close up the striking prowess of Manchester United teenager Marcus Rashford, who scored less than three minutes into his full England debut in Sunderland.

The 18-year-old has given Hodgson plenty to think about ahead of making his final selection on Tuesday, but Forster has no doubts about the youngster's quality.

"He played fantastic and it was great for him to get the goal," he said.

"He obviously hasn't been in the squad very long, but it is brilliant for him.

"He's had a fantastic few months and it is important we remember how young he is and don't put too much pressure on him.

"He is obviously quiet as he has just come into the squad, but he is a hard worker and gives 100 per cent in training like everyone and it is fantastic to have him in the group.

"He is a quality player and he has come into the squad and shown great confidence.

"It is obviously not my call, but he's put a bit of pressure on the manager.

"It is obviously the manager's decision and he will select the options he thinks we need and it is a case of wait and see.

"I think all the strikers have different qualities and different strengths and we have such depth in the squad when you look at the number of players we have with quality it will be a little harsh some will miss out, but we can only take the 23."