Ross Barkley player of the month - August

Ross Barkley has been recognised for his excellent start to the season by being handed Everton’s Player of the Month award for August.

The midfielder scored his maiden goal for the Club in the 2-2 opening day draw at Norwich City and was an ever-present as the Blues emerged from the first month of the season unbeaten.

The teenager carried that form into September and earned his first England senior cap in last month’s World Cup qualifier against Moldova at Wembley.

And only yesterday Barkley netted his first Goodison Park goal as Everton climbed into fourth place in the Premier League table with a 3-2 victory over Newcastle United.

Prior to this season, the Wavertree-born youngster had only started four league matches, but this term he has been named in the first eleven in each of the Blues' six top-flight fixtures.

And Barkley was quick to thank manager Roberto Martinez for allowing him to showcase his exceptional talent.

“The manager said he believes I am going to be a big player for Everton this season and for seasons to come,” he revealed.

“The only way you learn is from mistakes and the manager is allowing me to make them so I can learn from them. He’s giving me information about where not to make mistakes and where I can afford to take risks, so I’m taking all of that on board.

"I'm pleased with my start to the season and pleased to have scored a couple of goals, but I want to carry that on now and continue having a good season."

The 19-year-old received his award at a special lunch held at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool city centre earlier today.