Ross Barkley aiming to earn England recall with Chelsea form

Ross Barkley is hoping to make a comeback with the England national side through his performances for Chelsea this term. The Three Lions midfielder joined the Blues from Everton during the winter transfer window but he could not make much of an impression for his new club after sustaining a spate of injuries.

However, with the new season, Barkley has managed to overcome his injury concerns and the 24-year-old is now aiming to catch the eye of Gareth Southgate with regular performances on the pitch, he said: “Last season I had a difficult time with my injuries but that’s in the past now, I’m feeling really strong and I’m ready. Game by game I’ll be feeling even better and I’m feeling confident. I’ve just got to do what I can. I’m still learning and giving 100 per cent in training, trying to learn the new manager’s methods. Hopefully with my performances on the pitch I’ll be in the thoughts of the England manager.”

During his time at Everton, Barkley was regarded as one of England’s best young prospects and he even made the 2014 World Cup after a breakthrough campaign with the Toffees. However, his fortunes have since dwindled with several other youngsters making the national team and he has now been left waiting for his first England appearance in over two years.

At present, Barkley has managed to cement one of the three midfield positions alongside Jorginho and N’Golo Kante but things could change in the coming weeks with plenty of competition behind him. Loan signing Mateo Kovacic is presently close to acquiring full fitness and the Croatian could be among those competing for Barkley’s position alongside Cesc Fabregas, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Danny Drinkwater. Chelsea have made a strong start to the Premier League campaign with back-to-back victories and they are now scheduled to face Newcastle United in their next game at St James Park.