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Ross Barkley left Everton for Chelsea during the January transfer window, but injuries have hampered the player’s career at Stamford Bridge.

Barkley has made just three appearances under Antonio Conte this season, and Paul Merson thinks the 25-year-old is running out of time to resurrect his career.

“He is running out of time to resurrect his career,” Merson said.

“His move to Chelsea has been a disaster and it needs to click for him quickly now or he’ll be forgotten.

“I’m a big fan of his but it’s a strange one. He’s a No 10, and when I played, you didn’t start playing in that position until you were 27 or 28.

“It’s the hardest position on the pitch. I know because I’ve done it. You’ve got to make things happen and you’re always under the microscope. It’s a pressure position.

“But he’s not playing there for Chelsea and you have to wonder if he ever will.

“He’s been stuck out wide there and he needs a free role in my opinion. If a new manager comes in with a different system he might get a chance next season.”