Former Everton midfielder Kevin Kilbane believes defender John Stones has all the attributes to be a superstar.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a meteoric rise under boss Roberto Martinez and his form saw him heavily linked with a potential move to Chelsea in the summer.

His fine performances have continued this season and both Real Madrid and Barcelona are believed to be tracking his progress.

Although team-mate Romelu Lukaku grabbed the headlines, Stones produced another elegant display in Monday’s 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace, stepping out of the defence with ease to start attacks.

The result left the Toffees ninth in the table but they will have the perfect opportunity to improve on their position when they face Norwich on Saturday.

Everton are the current 2.40 favourites to win in Norfolk, while the draw is 3.40 and the Canaries 3.00 to grab a first victory in four.

Stones is again expected to be at the heart of the defence and will be confident of helping his side keep a clean sheet, with Norwich netting just once in their last three outings.

After watching the former Barnsley man on Monday, former Toffee Kilbane was full of praise for the youngster and said he expects him to establish himself as one of the finest defenders in the game.

“John Stone’s anticipation is ahead of the attackers’, ahead of the play, and I’m a huge admirer,” he told BBC Sport. “He’s been a huge plus since he broke through into the side.

“You watch him closely; he’s anticipating where the midfielder is going to pass the ball. He’s going to be a superstar.”