Sarri: Barkley becoming vital for Chelsea and England

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri says Ross Barkley’s tactical improvements have seen him become a “very important” player for both club and country.

The 24-year-old has already made 14 appearances for the Blues during their unbeaten start to the season.

Barkley has scored three goals in his past three Chelsea appearances and has also been recalled by England.

He started in the recent 0-0 draw with Croatia in the European Nations League.

“He has a great technical quality and great quality from the physical point of view,” Sarri said.

The former Everton midfielder joined in January 2018 but was hampered by injury in his first season.

Sarri said Barkley’s improvement after the injury problems of last season is clear and added that he has also “improved from the tactical point of view”.

“He is becoming a very important player for us and for England,” Sarri added.