Chelsea’s battle for the number ten role in Frank Lampard’s system has been a great watch this pre-season with England international Ross Barkley fighting it out with up-and-coming star Mason Mount – though it is the former’s free-kick against Reading which has left many supporters praising him.
The Blues were victorious against Championship outfit Reading but only just, the full-time whistle blowing with the game at 4-3. It was Barkley’s free-kick which equalised early on for Chelsea before Kenedy put them ahead and a Mount brace all but secured the win.
Postage stamp!
? @RBarkley8 #REACHE pic.twitter.com/TlIeQm4h8N
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 29, 2019
A number of the Stamford Bridge faithful took to Twitter to share their thoughts following the game. One supporter believes that Barkley will realise his full potential under Lampard’s management whilst another told the attacking midfielder to take this chance and smash it.
The 25-year-old joined Chelsea from Everton in the 2018 January transfer window for £15m and has gone on to feature 52 times for the Blues, scoring five goals and assisting six more. Last season he could only manage 13 starts but did manage to score (three) and assist (five) the bulk of his total amount during his time in West London.
Other supporters said his vision had been immense this pre-season with one fan claiming that it is clear his best role is further up the pitch when allowed more freedom, asking the England international to become more consistent.
You can read the best of the reaction below:
Been class this pre season Barkley lad
— Conn (@ConnCFC) July 29, 2019
I knew you will improve in shooting and set pieces under our very own superman, Frank. willian knows these things but have never seen someone wasteful like willian. Always go for it Ross.
— Moses juma (@MOSEYOUTHNATION) July 29, 2019
This season is your chance. Take it by the balls and smash it. Do not let this slip. ????
— Mike Lee (@passthelettuce) July 29, 2019
You are a Talent Ross????????Keep it up.
— Shubham Shah (@Shu_07_bham) July 29, 2019
We love you Ross????
— Lady Chelsea (@LadyChelsea_) July 29, 2019
https://twitter.com/Flimzy4u/status/1155646132032327681
https://twitter.com/Miz9Rahman/status/1155599056195874817
Honestly think Ross Barkley is going to realise his full potential under Lampard’s management. #CFC
— Jake Hamblin (@JakeHamblin20) July 28, 2019
Ross Barkley has really impressed me during our preseason. I think it’s pretty clear that his best role is when he plays further up the pitch and is allowed more freedom. Am hopeful that he will improve this season but what he really needs is to find consistency. pic.twitter.com/nAgcWHfY4S
— Oscar (@OscarCFC__) July 28, 2019
