Everton boss Roberto Martinez has been happy with Ross Barkley's form in a defensive midfield role.

Martinez reckons the 21-year-old can shine in most positions across the midfield - and what he describes in traditionalist footballing terms, as the 'number six', is simply the latest string to his bow.

"I think Ross is very flexible," said the Catalan. "He is learning all the time. Ross can play in a six, an eight or in the number 10.

"He can play in a variety of positions and it's how best we can use his power and strength.

"At Manchester City, when the spaces were developing, he was fantastic as a number six, using his quality between lines and he can play in many positions.

"At City I knew that I needed Ross to be influential in the game and give us a real strong finish and I couldn't be happier with the way he got to the tempo of the game and affected the game."