91Èȱ¬

Reading midfielder Hal Robson Kanu believes his team-mate Alex McCarthy is currently the best keeper in England.

McCarthy, 23, earned his first international call-up earlier this month and could make his England debut against Brazil this weekend.

Robson Kanu said he was not shocked to see his club goalkeeper called into the senior side after a fine debut season in the Premier League.

"It's not a surprise he has been called up," he told 91Èȱ¬ Berkshire.

McCarthy's season was hampered by a shoulder injury which kept him out for five months, but he returned to the side in time for the end of the season turning in several good performances despite the club's relegation.

In April, after producing a man-of-the-match performance against Liverpool, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers predicted a bright future for the Reading academy product.

"I know Alex well," said former Reading boss Rodgers.

"He's genuinely going to be a top, top keeper and to perform like that having been out for so long was absolutely staggering.

"He has all the qualities to be a top, top keeper. He's 6'5", makes good saves, is good on his feet and is very calm and assured despite being very young.

"In terms of England it will be hard because Joe Hart is one of the top five keepers in world football, so it will be very difficult for him because Joe is still very young."

And Robson Kanu, who came through the club's academy with McCarthy, believes he is on a par with Manchester City's Hart.

"It was only a matter of time (before a call-up) with his performances this season," he said.

"It will be a massive moment for the club and a proud moment for Alex (if he wins his debut).

"It shows how far the club has come. Al (McCarthy) is a cool customer, he's probably the best keeper in England at the minute anyway."