Season › 2011-12 › News Ross Barkley signs 4½-year deal Michael Kenrick , 16 December, 39comments | Jump to most recent Massive statement of faith in Everton FC Ross Barkley has signed a new 4½-year contract, that could make sure the hugely promising youngster stays with Everton until at least 2016. David Moyes' faith in Ross Barkley has been rewarded with some superb displays Barkley, 18, has made four starts and three substitute appearances this season and has impressed in Everton's first team. Chairman Bill Kenwright said: "We are pleased but obviously not at all surprised that Ross has agreed his first long term contract with the Club. "Ross has recently talked of his commitment to Everton and his growth under the very special guidance of David Moyes, his staff and indeed our senior players. That combination of expertise can only be of benefit to any young footballer." Speaking in this month's Evertonian magazine, Barkley said: "I am still only very young and the manager knows what he's doing and what's best for me. He's had young players coming through before. That's what's great about Everton. The manager will always give young players the chance to play at the right time." Stuart Pearce handed Barkley his first England Under-21s call-up earlier this season. Quotes or other material sourced from ESPN Soccernet Deal knocks back United and Chelsea Reader Comments (39) Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer Add Your Comments In order to post a comment, you need to be logged in as a registered user of the site. » Log in now Or Sign up as a ToffeeWeb Member — it's free, takes just a few minutes and will allow you to post your comments on articles and Talking Points submissions across the site. About these ads