Everton boss Roberto Martinez feels Ross Barkley is a better player for this season's tough campaign.

Barkley, 21, has struggled this season too, but put in an impressive performance for England against Italy during the week.

"He will be a better player for a difficult season, it's only his second full season in an important role in this squad," Martinez said.

"To see a player getting those experiences, I enjoy seeing him take control of games and with the physicality he has you don't see many in world football with those qualities.

"We know who he is, how good he is through good and bad moments and don't get carried away when extreme surroundings affect his performances.

"We know how important he is to Everton."