Gareth Barry says his Everton team-mate Ross Barkley is “nailed on” for a place in England’s World Cup squad.
Midfielder Barkley came through the Toffees’ youth ranks and has produced a number of impressive performances this season since being given an extended run of first-team games by manager Roberto Martinez.
The 20-year-old’s form has caught the eye of England boss Roy Hodgson who handed Barkley his senior debut in September – and Barry believes that he can add to his three caps and cause a stir at this summer’s tournament.
Barry celebrates an Everton goal with Barkley and Oviedo
Barry said: "Ross, for me, should be absolutely nailed on to be on that plane. And if he continues like this, I'm sure he will be.
"I'm sure the England manager knows enough about Ross to know that he could go out there and surprise a lot of teams, because he has that natural ability."
Barry joined the Goodison Park club last summer shortly after the arrival of Martinez at the helm, and he believes that Barkley will continue to improve with under the Spaniard’s tutelage.
He said: "He is just growing in confidence as the season goes on.
"I think working with this manager, it is going to have that sort of impact on him.
"And the more he learns about the game and his position, the more he is going to improve."
Barkley will be hoping to be involved in England’s next match against Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday 5 March. Tickets are available here.
