OPINION
Chelsea are renound for their talent in their midfield, but the signing of Ross Barkley seven months ago would have undoubtedly left many scratching their heads.
His arrival at Stamford Bridge during the January transfer window was somewhat bizarre, especially when the Blues already had the likes of Eden Hazard, Willian and Cesc Fabregas to call upon in that department.
Unfortunately for the 24-year-old former boss Antonio Conte was not convinced, and he ended up being rarely-used last season, making just two appearances in the Premier League.
However, things could now be looking up for the young midfielder – Chelsea now have a new boss at the helm in the shape of Maurizio Sarri, who has already handed Barkley seven appearances since his appointment.
In light of this recent opportunites awarded to Barkley, ex-Blues’ midfielder Dennis Wise backed the former Toffees’ man to work his way back into the regular first team, and was quoted by Goal as saying “there’s a big possibility.”
In light of the legend’s recent comments, Sarri must maintain in his faith in the England international – who has 22 caps – and instate him as a first team regular for the rest of the campaign in the midfield.
Barkley deserves to be playing regular football again after the treatment he was subjected to under Conte – and Sarri will only reap the benefits of doing so by acting on Wise’s backing.
Playing alongside the likes of Hazard, Willian and Fabregas will help Barkley improve his overall game – and if he does, Chelsea will have a lethal force on their hands.
He has the ability to open up defences with his technical ability, and he must definitely start ahead of new signing Mateo Kovacic, who joined on a season-long loan.
Conte made a huge mistake not utilising Barkley, which was evident in the team’s inability to finish in the top four last season – but he can now help steer the club higher up the table this time around.
Sarri would complete a masterstroke by instating Barkley in the first team on a regular basis, and he must do so imminently.