Everton have looked excellent in the final third this season, and Roberto Martinez thinks one of the key components in their attacking improvement is the much-maligned Gareth Barry.
The 34-year-old Premier League winner covered more ground than anyone else in the Premier League last weekend and his anchorman role has allowed the likes of Ross Barkley and Gerard Deulofeu to focus more on wreaking havoc on opposing defences.
With 11 goals in their last three games the Blues are sharp, clinical and a joy to watch, and Martinez thinks Barry’s influence is a key part to Everton’s recent success.
Gareth has taken over the armband and has given a really calm feeling about our performances,
He never panics and for our young players that’s very important.
Once you get to know Gareth inside out, [you realise] that he is the most consistent footballer you are going to get in a dressing room. That’s down to his character.
The former Villa stalwart has taken the captain’s armband from Phil Jagielka, who is out until Christmas with a knee injury, and under Barry’s guidance Everton have won twice and drawn once in three matches.
The former City star came under severe criticism for some of his performances last season, but has now returned to the high standards he set in hist first season at Goodison Park and is back in the good books of Evertonians.
He [Barry] is a player that I would love every single young player to learn from,Everything starts from his focus and mentality.
Martinez is unequivocal in his beliefs about the importance of Gareth Barry, but is he as vital as the Catalonian suggests?
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