Nice manager does not know what position Ross Barkley plays in after shock free transfer swoop for ex-Chelsea star
NICE boss Lucien Favre seemingly didn’t know what position new signing Ross Barkley played in before snapping him up.
England international Barkley joined the Ligue 1 side on a free transfer last week following the mutual termination of his Chelsea contract.
But the midfielder’s talents were seemingly unknown to his new manager before he touched down in the French Riviera.
During a press conference on Wednesday, a journalist asked Farve: “In your mind, is he [Barkley] more of a six, more of an eight?”
And Farve’s response proved to be an admission of him being unsure where to deploy Barkley.
He said: “I’m told he’s more of an eight.”
READ MORE IN SPORT
Barkley, 28, has yet to feature for Favre’s side – who are currently toiling in 16th place in the Ligue 1 table.
The former Everton man was officially unveiled to Nice fans last Sunday ahead of their clash with Monaco.
Barkley has yet to comment on his arrival at the Allianz Riviera Stadium, although he did pen an emotional goodbye message to Chelsea fans a few days earlier.
He wrote: “After four and a half years at Stamford Bridge it’s time now to move on to my next challenge.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BETTING OFFER – GET £50 BACK AS CASH
Most read in Football
“I’d like to thank everyone connected with @ChelseaFC for making me feel so welcome during my time at the club and despite many ups and downs, I leave with many fantastic memories and lifelong friends.
“I will always be grateful and look back fondly at the time I spent as a Blue.
“I’d like to wish the owners, coaching staff, players and of course the fantastic Chelsea fans all the very best for the future and good luck for the season.
Read More on The Sun
“I’m feeling fit and strong and am excited for what the future brings!”
Barkley could make his Nice debut on Thursday night when The Eaglets host FC Koln for their first Europa League Group D match.
JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)