Ross Barkley

[Drummond]

Agree Dave, midfield isn't where we need to make changes for next season.

Barkley just needs a run of staying fit and I think he can do a good job for us. Generally holds possession well and can play different roles too, which Emery loves.

[paul_e]

Dougie is currently playing a role that Dean Smith had him in circa 2020.  Except now he is a bit older and wiser and can play it better.  Ross Barkley is showing us what a fantastic footballer he is and its a shame he isn't in the Europa League squad.

With the injuries we get in that position and how vital midfields are, I hope we keep both for the squad next season.  In fact, when Kamara is back, a squad of Kamara, Tielemans, McGinn, Onana, Bogarde, Barkley and Luiz is superb IF fully fit.

and with Hemmings and Kone (who I really like the look of) a year further along I don't think we need any other changes in there, especially when McGinn and Lindelof can offer a bit of cover there in an emergency.

[OCD]

Isn't Borland rated as well?

[paul_e]

Isn't Borland rated as well?

Yep, forgot about him. All i, our midfield depth looks soldi for a few years (if we sign Luiz or someone similar).