Everton FC

Everton FC to deliver Ross Barkley update tomorrow

Ronald Koeman says Everton will make an announcement on Ross Barkley’s future on Monday.

Barkley was benched from the Blues’ final day defeat to Arsenal as the stand-off over the midfielder’s long-term future continues to remain at an impasse.

The England international is yet to commit to a new contract at Goodison Park with his existing deal set to enter its final 12 months this summer.

Koeman admitted on Friday that he is not hopeful of Barkley remaining with his boyhood club, with a warning that he would be sold without a firm commitment.

But the Everton manager insists that he will speak to the Goodison board about the situation tomorrow before a public declaration on the 23-year-old is made.

When asked if Barkley had decided on his future, Koeman said: “No.

“I will speak to the board tomorrow and we will make a statement about that.”

 

Koeman also appeared to hint that much greater investment was needed in the wake of Everton securing a Europa League qualification place by finishing seventh.

“We know where we need to improve. That is a reflection of today,” he added.

“Overall the season has been really positive. We don’t have Ozil and Sanchez – world class players. That’s where we need to improve.

“We need more numbers to be prepared for a long, tough season in diff competitions. We need more aggression in the team.

“We need to get in more players who will bring more productivity to the team. That’s what we’ve tried to find.”