Stoke City boss Paul Lambert insists Jack Butland can be England's No1 for the World Cup.

The 24-year-old is set to be named next week in the squad for this month's friendlies against Holland and Italy, and Lambert says he has been impressed with him since becoming Potters boss in January.

“I wouldn't have any fear of him playing," said Lambert.

“I can only speak from my side and from what I've seen and I know England have some good goalkeepers, but Jack has been brilliant since I've been here.

“He's made one mistake really, against Leicester, but his performances have been exceptional. So I wouldn't have any fear if someone said to me that Jack Butland would start at the World Cup.

“Gareth would be the best person to judge. But if you're asking me would he be able to handle everything thrown at him? Then, yeah, I think so."