Everton boss Sam Allardyce: 'Ross Barkley is close to return'

Everton boss Sam Allardyce has suggested that he intends to consider Ross Barkley for a return to the first-team squad at Goodison Park.

Barkley has spent the first half of the season on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, but the 24-year-old has recently featured in training and a behind-closed-doors fixture.

The England international continues to be linked with a move away from the club due to just six months remaining on his contract, but Allardyce has said the playmaker could have a part to play in Everton's upcoming games.

The 63-year-old told the club's official website: "I'd like to have had Ross by now but that hasn't been the case just yet.

"He is training with us on a regular basis and he's very close to being available for selection."

Both Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur were interested in signing Barkley last summer.