Paul Scholes: 'England must use Ross Barkley, Raheem Sterling'

Former England midfielder Paul Scholes has claimed that Roy Hodgson must not ignore Ross Barkley and Raheem Sterling at the World Cup.

Ahead of their opening Group D match against Italy on Sunday, it remains unclear how Hodgson will look to use the young duo, but Scholes believes that both players should be in contention for a starting spot.

"There is no point taking people like Sterling or Barkley to Brazil 'for the experience'. Play them," the 39-year-old told reporters.

"Some people might say it's risky. But these players have the fitness and ability to get the ball back if they lose it - hopefully not in dangerous positions.

"Now is a great chance for Hodgson to give English football the identity we've lacked."

John Barnes has suggested to Sports Mole that Barkley and Sterling would make more of an impact from the bench.