Everton: Wayne Rooney wasting his time with Ross Barkley
By Paul Taylor
Wayne Rooney discusses the future of Ross Barkley and hopes he will remain with Everton, but it will be unlikely to change the midfielder’s mind.
Understandably, everyone connected with Everton would like to see Ross Barkley stay with the team. From the manager, to the players, to the fans, his talent is just what the Blues need, as they look to challenge the established order at the top of the Premier League.
Unfortunately, events in recent months seem to be pointing towards Barkley leaving Merseyside sooner than later. It all started in May, when he was offered a contract extension, which would have made him the highest paid player at the club.
However, when the 23-year-old hesitated to sign the deal, Ronald Koeman issued an ultimatum. In essence, agree the contract by the end of May, or he would be sold during this summer.
In that respect, Barkley’s refusal to sign the deal spoke volumes. And yet, there was still some hope he would see sense and stick about for Everton’s renaissance.
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Unfortunately, any optimism suffered another dent, when Everton left last Tuesday for Tanzania, without Barkley. The official word was he was receiving treatment for a groin issue, but Yannick Bolasie was dealing with a much more serious injury and that didn’t stopped him travelling with the team.
Again, this only reinforced the belief that the writing was on the wall. However, at least one man is refusing to give up hope just yet – Mr. Wayne Rooney.
As reported by the Sunday Express, England’s all-time leading goalscorer wants Barkley to remain with the team and help them fulfill their ambitions. Speaking to Neil Fissler, Rooney said:
"“With the ability that Ross has, of course we all want him to be a part of what we’re trying to achieve at Everton. He can help us get better but the decision about his future is down to him. I’m sure he will speak to the manager and do what’s right for him.”"
And in reality, it’s that final sentence which reveals the crux of the situation – Barley will do what’s best for him. Further, Rooney would be in no position to criticize him.
After all, despite being a boyhood Evertonian, the 31-year-old still left his beloved club, to give himself the best possible opportunity to win trophies. Of course, it’s virtually impossible to argue he made the right choice, after all the success he enjoyed at Manchester United.
Along those lines, it really does depend on who steps up with an offer for Barkley. After rejecting Everton’s contract offer, it’s seems clear his main priority is challenging for honours, rather than making as much money as possible.
Rooney was right to speak up, as he knows the youngster staying will only help his own dream to win a trophy with Everton. However, it probably won’t change Barkley’s mind, something which the 2009/10 PFA Player of the Year should understand better than anyone.
Do you believe Rooney has any chance of persuading Barkley to remain on Merseyside? Or have you already accepted this midfielder will be leaving during the current transfer window? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.