- Mar 30, 2004
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Ability wise I'd say they're both a similar level however Sissoko has shown himself as somebody who can mentally switch off during games and I think this works against him.
I would have no issue in swapping him with Barkley who I think needs a new challenge and 'could' fit perfectly into our squad as a creative outlet behind Kane (but I wouldn't want us throwing money at him)
This applies equally to Barkley. His form over most of the last two seasons shows it, and Koeman has spoken about it twice this season already - September before Middlesbrough and recently. The first time he responded well and played well again, this time.. not really sure. There must be a reason why Koeman feels he has to 'test', as he put it in Sept, Barkley. Feels he can't handle the pressure and needs him to show he can.
Agreed he could do with a new challenge, but at the same time he's a local Everton lad. I think he should be better than he is by now, and moving clubs could do that - alternatively, it could be demotivating. Some players lose that 'something' when they leave the club they support. Hard to say without knowing him...