Chelsea news: Maurizio Sarri hails 'very important' Ross Barkley and says best is yet to come

First goal: Barkley broke his duck by turning home Giroud's acrobatic assist
REUTERS
Joe Krishnan8 October 2018

Maurizio Sarri has heaped praise on Ross Barkley after the midfielder played the starring role in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Southampton at St Mary's.

The 24-year-old set up the opener for Eden Hazard after winning possession and playing a smart pass through the defence before getting on the scoresheet himself, tapping home Olivier Giroud's improvised cross in the second half.

It was an impressive overall performance from Barkley, who has now appeared in nine games under Sarri having only made two appearances under former boss Antonio Conte last season.

The Italian coach recognised his improvement this season before suggesting the best is still to come from the England international.

REUTERS

"Today he has played really well," Sarri told reporters after his side maintained their unbeaten Premier League record.

"I am really happy with him because from the beginning he has improved, day-by-day, week-by-week, match-by-match.

"He had a very serious injury in the last season, now he's improving every day but I think the best will come for him."

The goal and assist, a first by an English player in Chelsea colours since Frank Lampard in 2013, marked a perfect week for Barkley as he was named in the England squad by Gareth Southgate - his first call-up since May 2016.

In Pictures | Southampton vs Chelsea | 07/10/2018

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Sarri believes the playmaker has the potential to become an important part of the squad under his guidance.

"Potentially, he is a great player because he has quality, very important qualities from the physical point of view, from the technical point of view, now he's improving from the tactical point of view.

Barkley believes he is due an international recall.
Getty Images

"I think he will become very important in England and for the England national team."

Additional reporting from the Press Association

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