Ross Barkley: 'Wayne Rooney helps young England stars'

England midfielder Ross Barkley has talked up the influence that captain Wayne Rooney has had on the squad's youngsters.

The 20-year-old Everton star was part of the Three Lions squad that played at the World Cup in the summer, alongside teenagers Luke Shaw and Raheem Sterling.

All three are part of Roy Hodgson's contingent for the upcoming games with Slovenia and Scotland, and Barkley has praised Rooney for how he helps the less experienced members of the team.

He told reporters: "When I was younger I saw Wayne breaking through at 16, scoring cracking goals. Then for him to go and make his England debut, while he was still at Everton, was good to see.

"He's gone on and had a tremendous career and I've always looked up to him. He's been helpful to me and the other youngsters like Raheem and Luke Shaw.

"He's always been there for a bit of guidance and to pass his experience on to us."

Barkley made his England debut in September 2013.