Everton Kids Are Ready For England World Cup Call, Claims Toffees Boss Roberto Martinez

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Spaniard says that the Toffees pair are part of a “golden generation” of English talent.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has said that youngsters Ross Barkley and John Stones have proven that they are ready to represent England at this summer’s World Cup.

Midfielder Barkley, 20, and defender Stones, 19, have played key roles in Everton’s impressive Premier League season, which will see the Goodison Park club finish fifth in the table.

Barkley, who has already been capped three times by the Three Lions at senior international level, has scored six goals in 32 league appearances this term.

Meanwhile, uncapped Stones, who can play at centre-half or right-back, has looked good during his 21 league outings for the Toffees.

“This season Ross and John have shown that they are ready, their contribution has been phenomenal,” Martinez told talkSport.

“They’re great examples for Everton, but also for English football in general. As young players, their character and attitude is fantastic and their talent is for everyone to see.

“They are part of that golden generation that is currently coming through the English ranks. There have been some young players that have been a breath of fresh air in the Premier League this season and you need that young talent coming through to the national side.

“When they’re allowed to come through into the first team is up to the manager, but I would absolutely be happy for both Ross and John to go to the World Cup.

“Nothing would faze them and I think they’re ready. They’ve shown us this season for Everton that the bigger the game the bigger reaction from them, and I think they’d do the same with England.”

Of Everton’s two young England hopefuls, Barkley is considered to have the better chance of being named in Roy Hodgson’s squad.

However, the uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Tottenham Hotspur full-back Kyle Walker could aid Stones’ cause.

Stones has represented England eight times at Under-21 level.

Hodgson will name his 23-man squad, plus seven standby players on Monday. He will then confirm his final squad on June 2.

Everton left-back Leighton Baines is a relative certainty to go to Brazil 2014. The 29-year-old has 22 senior caps under his belt already.

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