Everton and England midfielder Ross Barkley has dismissed "natural" comparisons to former Toffees player Wayne Rooney, believing that he should be judged on his own merits.
The 20-year-old has been named in Roy Hodgson's squad for Saturday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Slovenia, where he could line up alongside the Manchester United striker.
Both players made their name at Everton before going on to play for the Three Lions while still teenagers, but Barkley told BBC Sport: "I just see myself being the player I am.
"It's natural for the media to compare us because we came through the Everton youth ranks and are both playing for England, but I don't like all the comparisons.
"He's been really helpful. As soon as I came into the squad he came up to me and helped me settle in, and I'm thankful for it."
Barkley has won nine caps for England since making his debut against Moldova in September 2013.
Written by
Giuseppe Labellarte
Giuseppe Labellarte
