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Jagielka claims Everton colleague Barkley better than expected

Phil Jagielka believes Everton and England team-mate Ross Barkley has more talent than the 19 year old realises. Barkley made his senior international debut with a substitute appearance in England's 4-0 win over Moldova on Friday night.

"He's quite a quiet lad and doesn't talk that much but on the pitch he just enjoys playing," Jagielka told the Liverpool Echo.

"But Ross just takes it in his stride and loves playing football. He gets on the training ground and does his thing.

"I don't think he realises how good he is half the time. It is so natural and refreshing to watch.

"He's really enjoyed being with the squad and that's what you love to see, especially with a young lad.

"He's had so much expectation chucked on his shoulders and had to deal with a couple of bad injuries.

"So as well as the plus points, there has been a lot of negativity in his career but he seems to have come through that really well.

"He is playing well for Everton and that is the reason he got called up and on Friday when he came on he gave us a little lift."

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Dave Williams

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