Henry offers advice to Barkley on taking criticism

Daniel Storey

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has offered Ross Barkley after being criticised publicly by Ronald Koeman.

Henry believes that Koeman is a fan of Barkley, but is trying to inspire and motivate him to improve.

Barkley has dropped out of the England squad of late, too often struggling to perform at club level.

Henry’s most salient piece of advice appears to be ‘play well’, which is wonderfully insightful.

‘[Koeman] has been critical of Ross Barkley — among others — this season,’ writes Henry in The Sun.

‘It has caused a few raised eyebrows — although I do not think it should.

‘When a manager praises a player it is accepted as good: “Wow, what a guy, they really get on!” But when he is critical it is seen as harsh.

‘It is not that black and white for me. Criticism doesn’t have to be negative, it can be positive, it can be inspirational.

‘For Koeman it’s a tactic, a way to spark a reaction from Barkley.

‘There is no doubt he likes him, he has played him in every position across the midfield — No 10, out wide, holding midfield.

‘If he didn’t like him, he wouldn’t play him. And he certainly wouldn’t talk about him.

‘What can Barkley do? He has no choice: Ronald is his boss. His only choice: Play well!’