Ross Barkley has stated that England have to remain positive during the World Cup, starting in their first group game.
Barkley, aged 20 has come into his own so far after some positive displays with both club and country this year, and believes that the Italy game in Manaus will define England’s campaign.
And the Liverpudlian born midfielder believes that his side need to remain focused and positive throughout their fixtures, and are looking to start off well against the Italians.
“It’s very important when you go into a tournament, to set the tone in the first game,” he said.
“You have got to start with a good result, go into the game prepared and looking to win the game.
“With all the big-name players it’s going to be a big test playing against Uruguay but if we get a good result against Italy we can take confidence into the second game.
“We need to be positive throughout the group stage.”
The Everton midfielder made his international debut for the full side in September, and he feels fully at home in his familiar surroundings at international level.
“That is what I dream about, playing against the best players in the world,” he told evertontv.
“It’s every kid’s dream to be doing things like that and hopefully I will get the chance.
“I feel ready for anything. It is football, it is not life or death.
“You have to go on the pitch and get a result and focus on what you have to do on the pitch and not get distracted.
“The top players produce it week in week out and they are out there every week giving the same performances, if not scoring then setting goals up, always fighting and getting results.
“I will learn a lot. I went to the World Cup with the Under-20s last summer and I learned a lot there – about the (tournament) environment, playing against the big countries.
“I’ve never been to South America, (I will learn about) the temperatures, preparing for games, being away from home; it will be a good learning curve for me and a great experience.
“After every tournament I feel I have learned something and I come back wanting to progress.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
