Everton captain Phil Jagielka believes that Ross Barkley is primed to make a big impact on Merseyside this season, thanks to a more professional approach on and off the field.
Barkley started the season in style against Norwich City on Saturday, scoring from range to help the Toffees earn a 2-2 draw at Carrow Road.
Jagielka believes that time on loan has helped the 19-year-old develop, giving Everton fans plenty of reason to get excited about a teenager quickly drawing comparisons with Wayne Rooney.
He told The Mirror: "Ross went on loan last season and he's come back much more grown up. He's more of a man now. Before he was perhaps playing too much like a boy and enjoying himself a bit too much.
"But he's really come on. He's played well for the England Under-21s, scored a good goal for them and scored another one here. Ross has always been fearless but sometimes the edge of your own box is not the best place to be fearless!
"But he's thinking more like a professional now instead of just being a kid having a good time. If he keeps going like this then we will have quite a player on our hands."
Roberto Martinez's side continue their campaign with the Spaniard's first game at Goodison Park, against West Bromwich Albion.
Liam Power
