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Leeds and Newcastle reportedly eye £96k-a-week star that Warnock said you cannot rely on, in 2016

Will Butcher

Mon 18 October 2021 19:45, UK

Leeds and Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Chelsea ace Ross Barkley – a player that Neil Warnock said “you cannot rely on” back in 2016.

Barkley, 27, has been on the fringes at Chelsea in 21-22 after a disappointing loan spell at Aston Villa during 2020-21. He has played just 36 minutes.

Last season, the 33-time England international only scored three goals in 24 Villa outings. But he reminded fans what he could do earlier this month.

During a 3-1 win over Southampton, his gorgeous ball to Cesar Azpilicueta saw Timo Werner tap home – during the win at Stamford Bridge.

Leeds are battling Newcastle and Burnley for Barkley. The England star is in the final 18 months of his £96k-a-week deal ().

Of course, Barkley joined Leeds on loan from Everton in 2013 – playing just four times. Warnock was not impressed, criticising him later in 2016.

“I had him on loan at Leeds, and you could never rely on him. You couldn’t give him an opposition player to pick up,” .

“I watch him now he looks a different player and I would imagine he will have a real opportunity to stake his claim for an England spot.”

Warnock on Barkley: Could Leeds or Newcastle rely on him now?

Of course, back in 2018, Barkley was still breaking through at Everton and still a teenager. Now, he is a more rounded, mature player.

At one point, an England regular and one of the best playmakers in the Premier League. At 27, he still has time to get back to that level.

But can Newcastle and Leeds rely on him to get back to that? No, but he is certainly worth chancing their arm on Barkley, because there is a chance.

If Leeds, or Newcastle – who both need central midfielders – play him regularly, there is a chance he can return to his best form.