Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has admitted that he is frustrated by his lack of first-team football this season.

The 18-year-old, who is to sign a new long-term contract at the club this week, started the club's first three games of the season but has not featured from the off since August.

"It can be frustrating because I want to play all the time but I fully understand because I am still only very young and the manager knows what he's doing and what's best for me," said Barkley.

"He's had young players coming through before. That's what's great about Everton. The manager will always give young players the chance to play at the right time."

The midfielder, who made his debut against QPR on the opening day of the season, has attracted interest from Manchester United this season.