Watch: What next for Ross Barkley? Everton fans have their say

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Struggling to find a role for both Everton and England, one of the nation’s most exciting talents is in danger of leaving his potential unfulfilled.

Three years ago, Roberto Martinez was boldly proclaiming Ross Barkley as the next great English footballer, the modern day successor to Paul Gascoigne and a man worthy of obliterating the world transfer record.

Though we’ve got rather used to taking a Martinez special with a pinch of salt (he did once say Tom Cleverley was one of the most ‘sensational’ players in Premier League history, after all) but, on this occasion, it was difficult to argue with the chirpy Everton tactician. Barkley was special indeed.

Who could forget his curling wondergoal against Manchester City, his rampant solo effort against Newcastle United or his unstoppable, barnstorming display versus Arsenal? He was a natural talent, a so-called ‘street footballer. A new Wayne Rooney. Possibly a new Paul Gascoigne.

But that was three years ago. Its little coincidence that, as Martinez’s Everton revolution stalled, so did Barkley’s development. Once the toast of the nation, his decision making was now under scrutiny, as was his end product and understanding of the game. Eight goals and eight assists in the Premier League last season appeared to sum up the issue; inspired one week, anonymous the next.

These days, he’s in and out of the Everton side, scoring twice and assisting just once in the Premier League this season while the likes of Adam Lallana, Raheem Sterling and Dele Alli are now firmly ahead of him in the international pecking order.

Ronald Koeman, when publically questioning his development at the start of the season, made it clear that Barkley could not hide behind his precocious talent and potential. Now was the time for the 23-year-old to deliver. Rooney had already lifted two Premier League titles and the Champions League trophy at this age, after all.

So, what next? Where does he go from here? And how can one of the most natural talents of his generation finally deliver on that alarming early promise?