David Moyes pleads for Ross Barkley patience

David Moyes has asked Everton fans to be patient with Ross Barkley as the youngster continues to develop at Goodison Park.

Barkey made his first-team debut for the Toffees aged just 17 and has been tipped to be the latest Everton youngster to break through on Merseyside.

Moyes recalled the youngster from a productive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday in November and has revealed that he will hand Barkley chances to play when he feels the time is right.

He told reporters: "We have to remember he is a young boy and we're bringing him on. He missed a bit of football but I will continue to edge him nearer to our first team.

"When the right opportunities come and I think it's the right time, I will do that."

The 19-year-old is in the Everton squad for tonight's FA Cup third-round tie against Cheltenham Town.