Barkley aims to lead and Stones hopes to follow

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has set his sights on winning plenty of England caps having been called up to the senior squad for the first time.
Ross BarkleyRoss Barkley
Ross Barkley

The highly-rated 19-year-old – who spent time on loan with both Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United last season – has impressed in the Toffees’ first three matches of the season.

His form was recognised by Roy Hodgson who selected him for his squad for tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier at home to Moldova.

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“When the gaffer (Roberto Martinez) told me I was over the moon,” said the teenager.

“It was the best feeling ever. To get called up to your country’s senior side, there is nothing better that can happen.

“I think it will be a good experience being around top-class players like Phil Jagielka and Frank Lampard and learning from them all.”

Barkley added: “I’m humble about it and hopefully I do get a cap – and then plenty more in the future.

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“It’s been a positive start to the season and I’m hoping to push on and do better as the season goes on.”

Everton team-mate John Stones is taking inspiration from Barkley as he bids to establish himself on the big stage.

Former Barnsley defender Stones made his Everton debut in last week’s Capital One Cup defeat of League One Stevenage at Goodison Park.

Stone, who played in the same side as fellow 19-year-old Barkley, said: “Of course it is a big inspiration for me when Ross is making the first team and getting picked for England. He is hitting the ground running for Everton. I really want to do the same as Ross.

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“I am always trying to push for a first-team position, as is everyone in the dressing room. It is healthy competition.

“I want to cement a spot in the first team, to keep pushing as hard as I can all season until I get there. That is my big aim.”

Stones joined Everton from League One Barnsley on transfer deadline day in January. He had looked on course for a move to Wigan – then managed by Roberto Martinez – until the Toffees entered the bidding at a late stage. Stones has ended up playing for Martinez anyway following the Spaniard’s move from Wigan to Everton in the summer when David Moyes departed to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at champions Manchester United.

Martinez showed faith in Stones during the pre-season tour of the United States and the England Under-21 defender said: “To get that first game in pre-season was a big help for me, getting on and playing against Juventus, and then the likes of Real Madrid and Valencia.”