Everton confident that they can keep starlet Ross Barkley

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is confident that his club can keep hold of starlet Ross Barkley, even if the Premier League's big guns make a bid for the player in January. Barkley is widely tipped to become one of the best players of his generation.

Barkley has burst onto the Premier League scene in sterling fashion so far this year and many expect him to be on the plane to Brazil with Roy Hodgson's England squad next summer.


However, that form will not mean that Everton will be forced to sell the player, who has attracted the interest of Man Utd and Chelsea.


"He has a long-term contract and the first half of the season has been a real joy to see him grow and the second half of the season will be even better," said Everton's manager Roberto Martinez.


"We are in a strong position financially. When you have to bring in money then it can be a real difficult position as you can be anxious and frustrated.


"The stability we have from a financial point of view allows us to make football decisions and this January window is important for us to make sure we kick on and finish stronger than we started."