Everton's Stones: Teammate Cleverley deserves England recall

Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley has earned another chance with the England national team, at least according to teammate John Stones.

Cleverley, who scored the match winner Saturday at Newcastle with a looping header in stoppage time, last represented the Three Lions in 2013, when he was still with Manchester United. After spending a year on loan at Aston Villa, the 26-year-old opted to move on a permanent deal to Everton, and has established himself as a protagonist.

"I know as players you're biased to your own teammates," said Stones, "but I think it's only right that I speak on behalf of a lot of the lads in our dressing room when I say Tom should be in the England squad - on current form at least.

"He's playing terrifically well. Sometimes players don't get too many chances to get back into the squad, but I'm sure he would be delighted to."

Cleverley suffered a nasty ankle injury in the Aug. 29 fixture at Tottenham, and subsequently missed the next three months. But he immediately earned his spot back in the Everton starting XI upon his return earlier this month.

"He's been given unfair treatment over the last three years, but I know him well and the way he has been performing for our football club - that's him back to his best," said manager Roberto Martinez. "He's an English talent that goes further than just being someone who can do everything.

"He's outstanding at what he does."