Roberto Martinez believes Ross Barkley to have better prospects than Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.
England international Ross Barkley is yet another exciting prospect born and raised on Merseyside.
Over a decade ago, Arsenal’s fabulous 30-game unbeaten run came to end thanks to then-Everton youth product Wayne Rooney’s last-minute wondergoal at Goodison Park.
It was a goal which shot Rooney to stardom, and he soon attracted the attentions of then-Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson who decided to splash a record £26.5m on him when he was just 18-years-old.
Much has happened in the Premier League since Wayne Rooney’s teenage years, and not many expected England to churn out such a fine talent for many years more.
Everton boss Roberto Martinez, however, believes that not to be the case and has labelled current Everton star Ross Barkley a better prospect than Rooney.
“Ross is the best young England talent I have ever seen, for sure.” Reported by The Mirror.
When then asked, “Better than Rooney?”, Martinez responded: “For me, yes.”
The Toffees attacking midfielder has been a key player for Martinez’s side this season, scoring five goals and registering 67 successful dribbles – more than any other Everton player.
Barkley’s performances have earned him international recognition, and he has also been sounded out as a possible Manchester United transfer target this summer.
David Moyes will know all about the 20-year-old, and former Manchester United youth team coach Eric Harrison believes the £50m-rated star would ultimately solve United’s midfield crisis.
But considering the trajectory Everton are on – don’t expect him sold anytime soon.
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