Chelsea boss Antonio Conte backs new signing Ross Barkley to make England World Cup squad: 'I think the time is right to find a place in the World Cup but for sure it won't be easy'

Daily Mail | January 31, 2018

Antonio Conte has backed Ross Barkley to be in contention for England's World Cup squad after being pleasantly surprised by the midfielder's physical condition.

Barkley arrived at Stamford Bridge from Everton early this month having not played since May due to a hamstring injury.

Blues boss Conte has been impressed with the 24-year-old's fitness levels and believes he can force his way into the thinking of Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Russia 2018.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has backed Ross Barkley to make England's World Cup squad

Barkley joined Chelsea from Everton in January with a view to making the squad for Russiau00a0 — Barkley joined Chelsea from Everton in January with a view to making the squad for Russia

Conte revealed he was 'surprised' to receive Barkley in such good condition after his injuries

'I thought that I would find a player with not a good physical condition, instead I was surprised to find a player in a good physical condition.