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Everton midfielder Ross Barkley turned down the chance to join Chelsea despite Everton accepting Chelsea’s bid for the midfielder.

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson has blasted Barkley for his decision to turn down the chance to play for Chelsea.

“I’m lost for words,” Merson told Sky Sports.

“You’re going to the champions, he’s going to play with [Eden] Hazard, Willian, and he’s going to play!

“They haven’t got the biggest squad. I’d like to hear the full story, but I’m shocked.”

“Maybe he got nervous about living in London?

“Well you can’t live in Liverpool all your life.”