Ross Barkley completed 90 minutes for England on Saturday evening – and some Chelsea fans were critical of his international performance.
Gareth Southgate’s side dispatched Bulgaria 4-0 at Wembley in a European Championship qualifier.
Tottenham striker Harry Kane scored his second hat-trick for England, with two of his goals against Bulgaria coming in clinical fashion from the penalty spot.
Manchester City attacker Raheem Sterling was also on the scoresheet and it was a comfortable game against lesser opponents.
A selection of Blues supporters on social media singled out Barkley for criticism, which seemed a little harsh considering his performance.
The 25-year-old central midfielder hardly set the world alight against Bulgaria, but at times showed some positive moments in possession and quick-thinking in the final third.
He’s someone that has forced his way into the plans of Southgate and is a regular in the England squad.
But continues to have a selection of doubters and he needs to become a more regular goalscorer to win them over.
Barkley has been in and out of the Chelsea XI so far this season, with serious competition from teammate Mason Mount.
He’s yet to score or assist for the Blues this season, but 90 minutes for England during the international break should lift his confidence and hopefully he returns to Stamford Bridge in good spirits.
Here are some Chelsea fans on Barkley:
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
