Former Everton centre forward Gary Lineker believes that central midfielder Ross Barkley is a star in the making, and feels that he can only get better.
The talented 20 year old midfielder was superb in Everton’s 2-1 victory away at Swansea recently, curling home a superb free kick to win the game for Everton, and lift the Toffees up to fourth position in the Premier League.
Barkley has really matured as a player this season, having put in dominating performances in his central midfield role, and started the season superbly, this has since earned the playmaker a series of England call ups, and also alerted some of the Premier League, and Europe’s top clubs.
He has played in all but one of Everton’s 19 Premier League fixtures this season and secured the points in eye-catching style six minutes from time at the Liberty Stadium as Martinez’s side moved into the Champions League qualification places.
Lineker wrote on Twitter after Everton’s win….
Ross Barkley is a prodigious talent,” wrote ex-Everton forward Lineker, “England have a real player.”
He also added.
“Love watching Barkley play,” added Lineker. “Brings a smile to my face and is proof that, if they’re good enough, young English players will emerge.”
Barkley’s form has helped Everton into those European spots, with his manager Roberto Martinez praising the youngster…
He is a quite incredible diamond of English football.”
“Ross is growing game by game and he is showing different aspects of his play,” said Martinez. “A lot has been said about Ross, but it’s always an understatement.
“He’s an incredible listener and young man with a lot of potential. He always comes up with something different in a game to show he can develop.
“I’m proud of seeing him grow, he’s a player who gets fed by feelings, a natural talent who can play in any position.”
After Barkley’s fine displays, which included a superb individual goal against Norwich City on the opening day of the season, Barkley has been tipped to win a place in England’s World Cup squad next summer, having already earned three caps.
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
