Koeman: Barkley thriving in more advanced Toffees role

Everton boss Ronald Koeman has moved Ross Barkley further up the pitch in recent weeks and claims the midfielder is now shining brighter than ever.

As opposed to a box-to-box engine-roomer, Koeman is now employing the 23-year-old just off lone striker Romelu Lukaku, giving his more freedom to impact the game.

And the move is paying dividends as Barkley has racked up a goal and five assists in his last eight appearance, impressing once again the 3-0 trouncing of West Brom at the weekend.

Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

“Ross is changing his style a little bit,” admitted Koeman. “I don’t need Ross on the halfway line, having eight touches of the ball – we have defenders and midfield players for those areas.

“We need Ross between the lines and close to the opposition’s box, having shots and providing assists. That is some of the boy’s biggest qualities.

“He is so strong, so good on the ball, can shoot off his left or right foot, he’s clever and can see things on the pitch.

“You look at the third goal [against West Brom], he tried to dribble but saw Romelu at the far post and provided the assist. That is what we need in our offensive game – we need players like Ross.

“He has a slightly different position in the team now, a little bit more free with three midfielders behind him.

“He’s a fantastic player – he showed that with his assist [against West Brom]. He was outstanding.”