Donovan lauds Rodwell future

Toffees star set to impress says American

Last updated: 25th July 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Donovan lauds Rodwell future

Rodwell: Exciting future

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Landon Donovan believes Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell has the same future England potential as Wayne Rooney.

Toffees star Rodwell burst onto the scene in 2008 and has earned himself the reputation as one of the hottest prospects in English football.

The 19-year-old has reportedly caught the eye of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, and USA international Donovan is also impressed with the youngster.

Donovan spent a spell on loan at Goodison Park last season, and saw enough to convince him that Rodwell has the ability to set the world alight in the same way Wayne Rooney has already done.

"I think, along with Wayne Rooney, Jack really is the future of England," he told the Daily Star.

"Following England's World Cup campaign, I know the coach is being urged to bring through young blood.

"I really believe Jack could rejuvenate this England team. I don't give out false praise but this young guy really is a future world-beater.

Impact

"I am sure he can make the same impact for club and country that Wayne and David have - that's really how good he is.

"I have obviously trained and played with him at Everton and he is just a natural football player. Like Wayne it's effortless to him."

Donovan, who has been strongly linked with a move to Premier League big-spenders Manchester City, also believes England manager Fabio Capello should call up Rodwell to the next Three Lions squad.

"Of course England start their European Championship campaign and, if I were Capello, I would throw Jack in at the deep end and start him," he added.

"Like Wayne, he has no fear and I feel he is already ready to play at the highest level.

"He is the most exciting young player in the Premier League and, with Alexandre Pato at AC Milan and Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero, one of the most exciting in Europe.

"He can be a huge player for both club and country."