Everton youngster Ross Barkley has revealed that Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard advised him to follow his example and enjoy a successful career on Merseyside.
Barkley has flourished under new Toffees boss Roberto Martinez so far this season, with the midfielder ever-present for Everton early in the campaign.
The 19-year-old has said that Gerrard spoke to him at length during his first England call-up earlier this month, with his message to show Everton loyalty and avoid having his head turned by admirers elsewhere.
He told The Mirror: "He spoke to me a lot on England duty, which was great, and told me I'm from Liverpool, a local lad playing for the team I support, and there is nothing better.
"He's done that throughout his career. He said playing is the main thing, going to another team and not playing is no good for my development.
"He said the big-hitters are going to be looking at me and getting linked with me, but that the main thing is I stay with the club I'm at, the team I support and the team I love, which is Everton."
Martinez is expected to keep Barkley in his starting XI for this weekend's trip to East London, as Everton look to maintain their unbeaten run against West Ham United.
Liam Power
