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Ronald Koeman has advice for Ross Barkley regarding his position

Everton manager Ronald Koeman (REUTERS)
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Everton manager Ronald Koeman comments on Ross Barkley’s best position.

Everton's Ross Barkley scores their second goal

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has told The Guardian that Ross Barkley must be the most attacking midfield player in his team.

Koeman has urged the 22-year-old England international attacking midfielder to be more productive and create more chances for striker Romelu Lukaku.

Everton's Ross Barkley in action

“Ross will always be the most offensive midfield player in my team,” the Dutchman told The Guardian. “OK, you can play differently with two holding or one holding midfielders and two more offensively.

“One of his biggest qualities is his creativity in front but he needs to have other players around him.

“Romelu needs other players to show more productivity and Ross is one who needs to do that if you play in that position.

“When he gets a little bit older then maybe he can drop back deeper but now it is in my mind to have him forward and be creative.”

Everton's Ross Barkley

Barkley is one of the best young attacking midfielders in the Premier League, but the 22-year-old has not been at his best so far this season.

As the following Opta Stats table suggest, the England international does need to step up his game.

Passing AccuracyTackles WonInterceptions WonBall RecoveryTouchesShots on TargetGoal AssistGoalsAppearancesMins Played
Ross Barkley84%41214076117566

Everton are sixth in the Premier League table at the moment with 15 points from eight matches.

The Merseyside outfit are just two points behind Liverpool, who are currently fourth in the standings and occupy the final Champions League spot.

The Toffees will return to action on Saturday afternoon when they take on Burnley away from home at Turf Moor in the Premier League.

Everton will head into the match against the Clarets as favourites and should be able to pick up all three points.

A top-four finish in the Premier League is beyond Koeman’s side, but they can certainly end up in the top six or top seven.

Everton manager Ronald Koeman