'Fitness Concerns' Prevented Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd Linked Nigerian Midfielder From Making Squad

Everton manager Ronald Koeman has claimed that England international of Nigerian descent Ross Barkley did not make the roster for the trip to Tanzania because of concerns about his fitness.

The future of Barkley at Goodison Park is covered in mist and Everton suits earlier made it crystal clear that he will be sold in the summer transfer window if he doesn't sign a new deal, with the current agreement between club and player set to run out at the end of the 2017-18 season.

''At the moment it is not a clear situation. He is not fit, that's the reason he didn't travel with the team,'' Koeman stated.

''We will see when he is fit and back, but everybody knows his situation, and we will see what will happen.''

Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on the 23-year-old Barkley.

England U20 World Cup-winning winger Ademola Lookman started Everton's first pre-season game against Gor Mahia on Thursday.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : evertonfc.com