Everton's Ross Barkley targets World Cup place

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has set his sights on playing in next summer's World Cup.

The 19-year-old made his England debut off the bench earlier this month as the Three Lions beat Moldova 4-0 at Wembley.

"I have set my sights on the World Cup," Barkley told The Mirror. "It's a goal for me. It will be hard, but through hard work hopefully I can get on the flight there.

"[England manager Roy Hodgson] told me to keep working hard and keep doing what I have been doing since the start of the season and if there comes a time that, because I am young, I'm on the bench, don't let your head go down.

"He believes in me. He has high hopes for me. He sees me being able to go to Brazil if I keep progressing as I have done since the start of the season."

Prior to making his senior international debut, Barkley represented his country at Under-16, Under-17, Under-19, Under-20 and Under-21 levels.