Everton boss Roberto Martinez has tipped Ross Barkley to become one of the best players in the world.
The youngster has won plenty of admirers this season, including Roy Hodgson who handed the Blues midfielder an England debut last year.
Martinez believes that Barkley can eventually become one of the planet's "elite" players.
Speaking to talkSPORT, the Spaniard said: "What's clear is, with time, Ross is going to be as good as he wants and is going to reach that elite group in world football of being a very special footballer.
"You get the naughty boy with real skill, or the down-to-earth boy who wants to listen but who probably hasn't got that edge in his quality. Ross has got both. He's such an exciting talent.
"Is he ready for England? That's just down to the national team manager to see if he needs that help in the team or not."
Barkley was part of the Everton side that beat Swansea City 3-1 in the FA Cup on Sunday.
Paul Gorst
