Ross Barkley removes tattoo marking Everton debut from his arm because he’s grown out of them
Chelsea star admits he regrets getting inked at such a young age after scoring a last-gasp equaliser against Manchester United
ROSS BARKLEY has got rid of his tattoos - including one celebrating his Everton debut.
The Chelsea star had 'XX.VIII.MMXI' - Roman numerals for the date he faced Queens Park Rangers on August 20, 2011 - removed from his arm.
But while his inkings are missing, Barkley has added goals to his game after a last-gasp equaliser stunned Manchester United.
Asked about his disappearing tatts, midfielder Barkley, 24, said: “I got them at a young age and sometimes when you are young you do stupid things and don’t think about it.
“I went into it too quick and over the years I felt I wanted to get them removed, so I went through the process in the last couple of years.
“My first tattoo was when I was 14. I was a bit young, like. I was a big lad so they didn’t question my age at the time.
“I’d never rule out getting another, maybe when I have kids I might have something done to go with that. I don’t know.”
It certainly seems Barkley is growing up as a player both for club and country.
He impressed in the Three Lions’ 3-2 win in Spain and on Saturday afternoon took his chance by tapping home in stoppage time after replacing Mateo Kovacic with 21 minutes remaining at Stamford Bridge.
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Asked whether this was the best few weeks of his career, the £15million buy from Everton added: “Yes, I’d probably say so. I got a couple of goals and couple of assists and played well for England. It just shows to myself that hard work does pay off in the end.
“Getting in the England side and getting in two positive performances — and here with my first goal at Stamford Bridge — is fantastic.
“We have got a lot of competition in our squad and when you get your chance, you have got to take it. I believe that I am doing the right things.
“I believe I’m a better player now. I’ve matured, I understand the game much more, which can be natural as you grow up.
“I am at a big club now with a lot of expectation and fantastic players around me — and my performances are showing it.”