Former Italy striker Gianluca Vialli has claimed that Ross Barkley could become "invincible" with his performances at the World Cup.

Despite suggesting that the majority of the Everton midfielder's appearances could come from the bench, Vialli is certain that the 20-year-old will impress for England ahead of Saturday's Group D meeting with Italy.

"If Ross Barkley comes off the bench he will be a major threat because nobody in Italy knows about him," the former Chelsea manager told reporters. "He is very talented and can cause the opposition problems with his vision and his passing and shooting ability.

"The World Cup is about going into the tournament as a good player and coming out as a world class player. By the end of it Barkley could be invincible."

Barkley has played just six times for England ahead of his first appearance at a major tournament.