Thursday, 25th September, 2014
Everton manager Roberto Martinez has waved away talk of a bid being prepared by Manchester City for young midfielder Ross Barkley.
The England international, who is currently out injured, has been mooted to be the subject of interest from the Citizens, with a £50m bid being prepared to take him away from Goodison Park.
For Martinez there is no need to comment on the speculation, which he considers to be a compliment to both the player and Everton.
"I don't think it's anything to comment from my point of view. I think that's something that is a rumour and we'll leave it there", he told a press conference.
"We've spoken in the past about potential interest and I always mention we take it as a footballing compliment. All we want from Ross now is to be able to get him fit and for him to enjoy his football, and we'll take it from there", Martinez added.
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Asked directly whether any enquiries have been received for Barkley, Martinez replied: "No."
Barkley is currently out injured, but Martinez has reported that the midfielder is making good progress.
The England star has begun running, with the next step being to introduce the ball to his training once again.
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