Roberto Martinez : About Ross Barkley Improvement

“Last season he was a young player enjoying his football, this year he’s ‘Ross Barkley’,“ said Martinez.
“That means it’s harder to find space, harder to get into positions where you can effect the game and that’s something that when you overcome it, it becomes an advantage.“

“I don’t see it as being as clear cut as him being less effective this season. He is evolving, he’s becoming stronger and his tactical awareness is growing all the time,“ added Martinez.
“Remember, when he is on the pitch, normally the opposition uses two players against him and someone else will be free elsewhere.“

“That’s something you need to use as a team.”
“As a young player you keep developing and you keep growing,“ he added.
“I think the thing I always admire with Ross is he will never shy away from getting on the ball.“
“When you have that character, you will get to appoint where your talent will shine.“

“Ross Barkley is a phenomenal talent but he’s still a young man, still learning and he needs to get through certain periods where he can make decisions in a better way.“
“But he’s a reliable character and someone who will always be positive in the squad.”

thefa.com