England player tipped to become the country's 'greatest-ever footballer' hasn't been called up since 2019

An England player who was tipped to become the country's 'greatest-ever' footballer hasn't been called up since 2019.

Thomas Tuchel leads a new era of the England national team, having replaced Gareth Southgate, who stepped down following Euro 2024 last summer.

In his first day of England training, Tuchel ripped up Southgate's plan as he begins a new chapter later this month when the Three Lions host Albania and Latvia in back-to-back World Cup qualifiers.

He named some new faces and some old faces in his first England squad since his appointment, including Dan Burn, who got Liverpool fans talking following his exchange with Jordan Henderson.

Tuchel then made a last-minute change to his squad as he selected a current Premier League star.

But many players have also been excluded from Tuchel's party, including Conor Gallagher and Ivan Toney, not to mention Arsenal defender Ben White, who has been told he should be banned from representing England.

Ross Barkley, 31, is another name who failed to make the cut, having resurrected his career at Luton Town before securing a switch to Aston Villa.

He hasn't been called up since 2019 when he starred for England in their 6-0 win over Bulgaria, scoring two goals.

In 2014, a year after Barkley made his senior international debut, ex-Everton manager Roberto Martinez backed his former player to become the 'best footballer' in England's history.

Speaking at a Q&A event entitled 'An Audience with Roberto Martinez', he praised Barkley, saying: "There is no doubt in my mind he will be the best player England has ever had.

"Ross has everything. Normally a player has the pace and power to get around the pitch or they have the vision to pick a pass.

"Ross can do both of those things, and he is technically gifted with both feet. Not only that, he is in love with the game."

Ross Barkley celebrates scoring in England's win over Bulgaria. Image: Getty

Before his eventual £15 million departure to Chelsea, Martinez added: "He will probably be the biggest asset Everton have ever had' though he was referring to his qualities as a player rather than his valuation."

Barkley joined Chelsea from Everton during the January transfer window back in 2018.

He failed to make a big impression at Stamford Bridge as he moved to Villa on loan before leaving England for France.

The midfielder signed for Nice before returning to the Premier League.