Stoke City forward Jonathan Walters has claimed that teammate Jack Butland will go on to be first-choice goalkeeper for England in the future.

The 22-year-old has earned praise for his form this season after earning his first-team chance when Asmir Begovic was sold to Chelsea in the summer transfer window.

Walters has predicted that Butland will be challenging Joe Hart for his England spot if he can maintain his form.

"Playing in the Premier League at such a young age, at a consistent level, he needs to keep that going," Walters told talkSPORT.

"He has started the season ever so well and he needs to keep it going and keep his head. But he is definitely a talent. He is definitely one for the next England goalkeeper, without a shadow of a doubt.

"He is so comfortable with the ball at his feet. He can play out from the back with his left foot and right foot, his distribution is excellent and he is pulling off world-class saves."

Butland has been linked with both Liverpool and Everton.