Everton: Things go from bad to worse for Ross Barkley

The hits keep on coming for Ross Barkley, with the Everton midfielder suffering another injury setback on Monday, in training.

Ross Barkley could be forgiven for wondering if the footballing gods have it in for him, and all because he just wants to leave Everton. As per a report from talkSPORT, he has suffered another injury setback.

Barkley damaged his hamstring, while training on Monday at Finch Farm. He will undergo a scan on Tuesday, to find out how serious the injury is.

As a result, talkSPORT claims there will now be fresh doubt over his move to Tottenham. In truth, Spurs were already dubious about signing the midfielder, given Everton’s transfer demands.

(The Toffees originally placed a £50 million price tag on Barkley. However, Spurs are apparently not prepared to go any higher than £30 million.)

Regardless, this latest setback is another blow for Barkley, who had only just recovered from a groin operation. The last couple of months have been extremely frustrating for the youngster, who did not take part in any of the Blues’ pre-season games, or their early venture into Europe.

If the 23-year-old does not move before the end of the summer transfer window, this could signal the start of a very long season for him. Ronald Koeman previously vowed to freeze him out of the team, if he didn’t sign the contract extension which was offered to him.

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If Koeman goes through with his warning, this could also impact Barkley’s chances of playing in next year’s World Cup in Russia. If he isn’t playing regular first team football, this decreases the likelihood of him being selected for the England squad.

As such, the Liverpool-born star’s fresh injury scare couldn’t have come at a worse time, especially with Aug. 31 fast approaching. Aside from the price tag, do Spurs really want to sign a player who has been unable to play recently?

Having said all this, there is one other potential plot twist to consider, which could give fresh hope to Barkley. According to talkSPORT, Chelsea are also believed to be interested in him, as they look to boost their homegrown players quota.

We know Cheslea have the funds, although this doesn’t mean they will pay big money for the sake of it. From Everton’s point of view, whether it be Chelsea or Spurs, they need to reassess their price tag, or risk losing Barkley for nothing next summer.

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At this point, is it possible for you to feel at least somewhat sorry for Barkley? Regardless, how likely is it now, that he will leave Everton before the end of the summer transfer window? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.