Barkley took five shots during Tuesday's 0-4 loss to Liverpool before being subbed off for Aiden McGeady in the 76th minute.

Barkley was just returning from a broken toe, and put in a great effort Tuesday, despite clearly being a bit rusty. Nevertheless, it's great news that he's back on the pitch, and he should be more ready for Saturday's match against Aston Villa.

Barkley (toe) is in the starting XI for Tuesday's Merseyside derby.

There was talk that Barkley may be able to return by Tuesday, but it's still surprising that he was able to get back on the pitch so quickly following a broken toe. It's a tough first match, with a clean sheet unlikely for the defender.

Barkley (toe) is hopeful to return for the Merseyside Derby at Anfield on January 28, the Daily Mail reports. It was originally thought the Everton midfielder would miss six weeks after fracturing his toe against Queens Park Rangers in the FA Cup, but he is expected to resume training soon and is eyeing a quick return.

Barkley has been an important member of the Everton squad. The young midfielder is currently second on the team in shots attempted and has scored three goals on the season. His fine play has drawn interest from bigger clubs, but Everton seems keen on keeping him.

Barkley did not play in Saturday's Premier League match against Norwich City due to a toe injury, and manager Roberto Martinez fears it may be broken, the Mirror reports. "Ross had a knock in his toe against Queens Park Rangers and we all felt that it would settle and he'd be able to play today. As it turned out, I think it's a bit more serious than we expected and it could be a fracture in his metatarsal and we need to assess it in the next few days."

Barkley is an important part of the Everton midfield and his absence will surely be missed. It's unclear how long he'll be out, although teammate Leighton Baines missed four weeks himself earlier this season with a broken toe.

Barkley picked up a toe injury during last weekend's FA Cup match against Queens Park Rangers, and will have a late fitness test ahead of Saturday's Premier League match against Norwich City, the Norfolk Eastern Daily Press reports.

Barkley had a goal and an assist during the QPR game, before coming off in the 88th minute. He's been an extremely important part of the Everton midfield this season, making an impact at only 20-years old.

Everton has gone to extreme lengths to say that Barkley will not be leaving the club in the winter transfer window, even guaranteeing that he will stay put, reports the Daily Mail.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez said that even a £50 million offer would not be enough to take the player on loan. Everton says the team is now in a position to decide who it lets leave regardless of the transfer fee.

Barkley came on for the second half to replace an injured Kevin Mirallas in the 1-0 Boxing Day loss to Sunderland.

Barkley put up an impressive 8 shots in just 45 minutes. Barkley has proven to be a dangerous young player and his improvements this season go hand in hand with Evertons success. Look for Barkley to be back in the starting lineup Sunday against Southhampton.