Liverpool full-back Jon Flanagan has told talkSPORT Reds duo Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson deserve a place in England’s World Cup squad this summer.

Sterling, 19, has enjoyed a more prominent first-team role at the Merseyside outfit over the past 12 months and has impressed in the team’s high-scoring forward line this season, netting seven goals so far, including a brace in the 5-1 win over title rivals Arsenal.

Meanwhile, after struggling to cope with the pressure that surrounded his £16million move to Anfield, 23-year-old Henderson has emerged as one of England’s most promising midfielders with a string of key performances for the Reds this term.

Both are currently considered to have an outside chance of being named in Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad, but Flanagan is adamant they must make the flight to Brazil.

“They without a doubt have to go to the World Cup,” the defender told Drivetime.

“I think they’ve been the best players in their positions in the league this year, they’ve both been outstanding.

“On current form they both deserve to be in the England squad and they both deserve to go to Brazil as well.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool defender Daniel Agger believes Sterling, in particular, has proved he has enough quality to make a successful jump up to the senior squad.

"He can handle the pressure, or else he would not play for us, for Liverpool. It's a great opportunity for him," said the Dane, who will face England in a friendly at Wembley on Wednesday.

"If he continues what he is doing right now I cannot see why not [for the World Cup squad].

"He is a great, great talent and has some qualities England can use."