I think both he and Stones are in that squad for the match experience rather than the 'squad experience' they'd likely get in the senior team.
I'm actually surprised Barkley is in the senior team if I'm honest. Great player, could do with the same experience I reckon.
No harm in giving him a go, it's been a good season and he at least deserved to be in the discussion.
I'm not sure I can name better alternatives off the top of my head but Chris Smalling continually getting called up is baffling.