David Moyes has asked Everton fans to be patient with Ross Barkley as the youngster continues to develop at Goodison Park.
Barkey made his first-team debut for the Toffees aged just 17 and has been tipped to be the latest Everton youngster to break through on Merseyside.
Moyes recalled the youngster from a productive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday in November and has revealed that he will hand Barkley chances to play when he feels the time is right.
He told reporters: "We have to remember he is a young boy and we're bringing him on. He missed a bit of football but I will continue to edge him nearer to our first team.
"When the right opportunities come and I think it's the right time, I will do that."
The 19-year-old is in the Everton squad for tonight's FA Cup third-round tie against Cheltenham Town.
