I NEED TO SEE ROSS BACK TO HIS BEST – UNAI

UNAI Emery has challenged Ross Barkley to return to his very best form next season to show just what Aston Villa missed in the final months of the campaign.

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The midfielder was ruled out for three months after the turn of the year through a knee ligament injury when the Villa boss reckoned he was playing at the highest level.

He did return in April but the former Everton, Chelsea and Luton Town playmaker has been told to keep up the fitness work in the summer to be ready to hit the ground running come August.

“It was necessary for him to adapt to our demands this year,” said Emery recently.

“When he was at his best, he got injured. And he was out for three months. Of course, that’s a long time. But now he is feeling good again. He’s training very well.

“But for next season, I want the best of him. I believe in him. I believe in his performances and how he can help us - like he was doing. He scored three, four, five goals this season.

“He contributed a lot and was adapting to us, improving progressively.

“Our demands - tactically and defensively - are very high.

“Last year, we needed to correct a few things with him individually. But I am very happy with him.

“Hopefully, he can maintain consistency through the summer, even while resting, so he can be ready for next year.”