Everton fullback Tony Hibbert says there's similarities between Ross Barkley and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney.

Having seen both players first-hand Hibbert feels Barkley can go on and be as successful as the England striker, but admits the club's finances may dictate how long they can keep hold of him.

"Wayne was a jack the lad. You could go out on the street with him and get him on the park and he'd be the same - he'd be diving everywhere, going in goal, it'd be madness. Ross is a bit more level-headed. He's also bigger. Potential-wise I think he is up there with Wayne," the 30-year-old told The Independent.

"I don't know if he's a central midfielder or if he is like a No.10 off the forward or on the wing. He has got the feet, the dribbles. With Ross I think you could develop a team around him really, he's that good.

"Really we need to keep hold of Ross. Obviously how the club is with the money situation [may be a factor] but I think he is the next big thing."