Jamie Carragher has backed Dele Alli to force his way into the England starting XI for Euro 2016 if he can continue his current form.
The midfielder scored the equalising goal for Tottenham in a 1-1 draw at Everton, earning him the man of the match award, as well as praise from Carragher and Graeme Souness in the Super Sunday studio.
Carragher said: “Every time there is a tournament for England, there is someone who comes late and – think of his appearance and his goal against France – I expect him to be in the England squad and actually, I’m thinking now, in the team, maybe in central midfield, if he continues.
“Every time you talk about Spurs you think he’s been one of the best players on the pitch.”
Carragher has also been impressed by Alli’s ability to thrive in more than one position for Spurs this season.
“Initially he’s been a central midfield player at MK Dons and, coming into the Premier League, he played there for a few weeks then he’s gone into the position off the front and it’s a totally different position really,” he added.
Every time you talk about Spurs, you think he’s been one of the best players on the pitch.
“You’re playing with your back to goal at times and when you’re in central midfield you’re facing the play, so that also shows his understanding at such a young age to play different roles.”
Souness was equally impressed and believes only injury or a bad attitude can prevent Alli becoming a ‘top player.’
“He shows such maturity, he takes risks. He’ll run with the ball, he’ll try and take people on with a dribble and he’s got great athleticism,” Souness said.
“He’s 19 years old and he should only get better and better, he’s a baby in terms of football. There’ll be a lot of people thinking ‘how did we miss him?’
“Unless he gets a bad injury or a big head on his shoulders he’s destined to be a really, really top player. He’s a modern footballer, he’s a ground coverer with technique.”
