Ross Barkley has become something of a forgotten man since his move to Chelsea in January.An undoubted talent during his rise through the ranks at Everton, injuries have stalled the Englishman's career in recent years but didn't prevent a move to west London.Barkley had been tipped for a move to the Premier League's top clubs for sometime and it was Chelsea who eventually made the move, footing £15 million for the transfer.However, the 24-year-old arrived during a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge and witnessed the Antoine Conte regime slowly crumble around him.He made four appearances for the Blues before a hamstring injury ended his season, although an FA Cup winner's medal ensured he finished on a high.Win two tickets to watch the world’s best FIFA players in action live at The O2! It’s time for the FIFA eWorld Cup Grand Final and you could be there…

Barkley returns for Chelsea

Nevertheless, such a nondescript six months left his Chelsea career hanging in the balance and the arrival of Maurizio Sarri only muddied the waters further.

Would the Italian simply move him on or give him a second chance at the club?

It's certainly an interesting question and one Chelsea fans are getting a better grip of after Barkley's return on Monday, starting against Perth Glory in the club's first pre-season friendly.

Barkley thrived under Sarri in the 'Hamsik role'

Barkley played 77 minutes in Western Australia with Chelsea winning 1-0 via Pedro's early goal.

He played in the unfamiliar position of inside forward, impressing throughout the game and creating numerous chances for both himself and Alvaro Morata.

In fact, his performance sparked plenty of reaction on Twitter with supporters now believing that Sarri's coaching ability could turn around his Chelsea career.

They were thoroughly impressed with Barkley playing in the 'Marek Hamsik' role of Sarri's system at Napoli. Check out the reaction below:

If Barkley is going to succeed at Chelsea, it's in the Hamsik position and under Sarri.

And supporters weren't the only people impressed with top journalists also praising the 24-year-old on his return.

Journalists were full of praise for Barkley

Sky Sports noted: 'Barkley did more than enough to show Sarri he deserves opportunities this season,' and believed he became 'the Blues' main man after the break.'

Meanwhile, the Metro wrote: 'He gave a lively performance, attacking space and offloading the ball nicely, and is probably a better fit for Sarri than other midfield options at the club.'

High praise across the board then and his individual highlights certainly backed the comments, take a look at the video below (watch from 0:59):

Of course, supporters shouldn't get too carried away after one friendly and against Australian opposition.

That being said, it goes without saying that Barkley exceeded normal praise and was arguably Chelsea's best performer on the night.

Given his Chelsea looked in tatters just months ago, Barkley deserves credit for showing he can mix it in the starting XI and genuinely give Sarri plenty to think about.

A couple more performances like today's and Premier League defences should be worried.

Do you think Barkley could still make it at Chelsea? Have your say in the comments section below.