Gareth Barry: Believes Ross Barkley's natural ability could surprise teams in Brazil

Midfielder Barkley, who came through the Toffees' youth ranks, has produced a number of impressive performances this season with the latest coming in last Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup win over QPR.

The 20-year-old's progress has not gone unnoticed by England boss Roy Hodgson, with Barkley having made his senior debut in September and now being in possession of three caps.

Barry admits he cannot see himself being on the plane to Brazil this summer, but what he can definitely envisage is Barkley causing a stir at the tournament.

Asked about the possibility of both him and Barkley being selected, the 32-year-old said: "I'm not too worried about that at the moment.

"I'm just looking forward to the second half of the season with Everton. I've not been involved with England for 18 months.

"But 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 has no doubt Barkley will continue to improve as time goes on, and feels Everton boss Roberto Martinez is a particularly good manager for him to work with.

"He is just growing in confidence as the season goes on," said Barry. "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."