Everton manager Ronald Koeman has played down the possibility of star midfielder Ross Barkley departing from the Merseyside club.
The England international struggled to make an impression on Koeman during the early part of the season, though his form has taken gone through a dramatic rejuvenation during recent weeks.
The 23-year-old has bagged five goals and as many assists, which has attracted interest from Premier League high flyers Tottenham Hotspur. Amid the speculation, Koeman has remained insistent on his desire to keep Barkley at the Toffees.
“Of course we want to keep Ross because I think he is that type of player that you need in your team to create chances and score goals,” Koeman told Sky Sports. “Sometimes you have to fight with players because you want to see more productivity and it is hard for them to take criticism.”
Considering that Barkley is an academy graduate, he will have a connection with the club and should be open to remaining at the club.
