No discussions ‘at all’ about Ross Barkley staying at Aston Villa, confirms manager

After an excellent start to his time on loan at Aston Villa, Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley has been far from his best and his playing time has reflected that as well. The last time he completed a full 90 in a Premier League match for example was back in January, and he hasn’t started any of their last eight league games over the past two months.

It would seem obvious that Villa are not at all interested in keeping the 27-year-old, unlike earlier this season, and their manager, Dean Smith has pretty much confirmed that now as well, saying that no such discussions have been held.

“Ross Barkley came in on loan at the start of the season. Obviously, Frank Lampard was the manager at the time we brokered a deal to bring him in on loan. That’s where it was.

“He’s got another two years left on his contract at Chelsea and [purchasing him has] not been discussed at all.”

-Dean Smith; Source: Mirror

The lack of interest from his own loan club is not a good sign for Barkley to make a positive impact at Chelsea once he returns. But maybe his former coach at Everton, David Moyes, now at West Ham could give Barkley a chance?