Ross Barkley has not made a single competitive appearance for Everton this season due to a hamstring injury that he suffered in the summer.

Many fans would have thought that the midfielder would be at a new club by now given that he decided against signing a new contract at Goodison Park.

The 24-year-old's current deal expires at the end of the season, which means that he will be eligible to join another club for free next summer.

The midfielder is still being heavily linked with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, and both could potentially make a move when the window reopens in January.

This week, Barkley created an Instagram story, which included an image of a huge scar on his left hamstring.

Alongside the picture was the caption, 'Not long now,' which indicates that he is closing in on a return to action.

Everton fans responded with expressions of shock, while others alluded to the transfer rumours.

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