Koeman gives Barkley one week to decide future

Cape Town - Everton manager Ronald Koeman has given midfielder Ross Barkley up until next week to decide his future.

Barkley has so far not signed a new deal with the club with reports linking the 23-year-old Liverpudlian with a move to Manchester United.

And, while Barkley remains undecided over his future, Koeman has said he is only willing to work with players who want to be at the club.

"The board is already working a long time (in the hope that) Ross will stay for a longer period,” the Dutchman Koeman said ahead of Friday’s Premier League clash against Watford.

"It's up to the player, but we don’t wait until August. Next week we need an answer, if we go for a holiday, he will (either) accept a contract or we will sell the player," said Koeman.

“I think if you need (this much time) then you have doubts,” he said.

While Barkley remains a crucial player for his club, his form in front of goal has dipped this season, which has seen him only score five goals in all competitions, compared to last season's tally of 12.