Martinez has likened the youngster to Ballack.
England’s latest uncapped call-up Ross Barkley has been compared to ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich star Michael Ballack by Everton boss Roberto Martinez.
The 19-year-old was named in Roy Hodgson’s 25-man squad for the Three Lions’ upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Moldova and Ukraine and the Spaniard believes the decision is wholly justified, due to Barkley’s growing talent.
“He reminds me of Michael Ballack. When Ballack was younger, nobody knew what his best position was,” Martinez was quoted by goal.com.
“Could he be a sitting midfielder, an attacking midfielder or play up front? Ross is that impressive.
“Ross is as good with his left foot as he is with his right.
“I look at Ross and you tell me what weakness he has? He hasn’t got one.”
Barkley scored the midfielder’s first Premier League goal for the Toffees in the opening day’s 2-2 draw at Norwich City and also impressed against West Bromwich Albion.
There has been much talk about the teenager’s ability and the manager has decided to give the youngster a chance after doing well on-loan at both Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United.
It’s praise indeed for the 40-year-old to liken Barkley to Ballack, with the German having a hugely successful career which included winning the Bundesliga four times, the Premier League and the FA Cup three times.
The midfielder also earned 92 caps for Germany and despite not operating as a striker, scored an impressive 42 goals and played in a World Cup and European Championship final.
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