2 players Everton must start in every game if they are to clinch a European spot

Ross Barkley

Despite an indifferent first half of the season, Ross Barkley’s form since Everton’s 2-1 win over Arsenal on December 13 has been much-improved and key to their consolidation of seventh in the table.

The England international grabbed an assist in that victory, and has since netted twice and laid on three assists in six Premier League starts to help Koeman’s men open up a four-point lead over West Brom in eighth.

However, it’s not just been his contributions which have been impressive, Barkley has grown in confidence and is relishing his role in the front three, with his link-up play with Romelu Lukaku particularly good in recent weeks.

When Barkley has the freedom to express himself in the final third, he’s an excellent player, so keeping him in this form and confident mood will be crucial if Everton are to reel in the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United to finish in the European spots.