Barkley keen to make fresh start at Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley says he feels fit and ready to make an impact at Stamford Bridge after an injury-hit first season.

The 24-year-old England international joined for £15m from Everton in January.

But he only started two Premier League matches with his two further appearances coming as a substitute in the domestic cup competitions.

However, he has started the first two pre-season matches under new manager Maurizio Sarri – against Perth Glory and Inter Milan.

Barkely told the club website: “I feel like I’ve been here for a long time now.

“I get on with all the lads and during the off-season I’ve got myself really fit just to give myself a head start knowing there’s a new manager you’ve got to impress and get used to what he wants really quickly. That’s been my approach.

“I’m hoping to start the season really strong.”

Barkley believes the style employed by Sarri suits his attacking instincts.

“There will be freedom because we have three men in midfield, to go forward, get close to the box, have shots and try to create,” he added.

“But we’ve got to be disciplined and organised without ball possession, being well drilled. It’s a new style of play and we’re all learning day by day.”