Manager Sven-Goran Eriksson will decide after the match whether Hart or Andreas Isaksson, who drops out after four games, will be the main man for the rest of the campaign.

It is a straight fight between the young Englishman and the Sweden international, given that Kasper Schmeichel is currently on loan to Cardiff.

Hart insists he is not feeling the heat.

He said: “The manager has been fair to everyone. Whoever he chooses, we all have to accept we have been given chances. I want to be playing and have been lucky enough to get a few games.

“I would be confident if I was named number one – I just want to play well, no matter the circumstances. While I am young and still have a lot to prove, I feel as though I am maturing both on and off the pitch.

“I am excited about the match, although I tend to take things day by day. A week is a long time in football, and I do not feel the need to set long-term goals.”

Hart would appear to be in pole position, and not just because he replaced Schmeichel in September.

Eriksson confirmed he was fielding his strongest team in the quarter-final tie.

Italian striker Rolando Bianchi retains his place in the starting line-up after getting his second goal in two games in the 4-2 victory against Bolton at the weekend.

Bianchi is determined to carve out a career at City after an indifferent start following his £8.8million move from Reggina.

Elano is also set for a run-out after a three-match absence with a hamstring injury.

City are aiming to make it 11 straight home wins in all competitions, but Eriksson added: “It will a tough game, because Tottenham are doing well.

“They had a great victory against Portsmouth at the weekend. After a slow start, they are now going the right way.”