Chelsea news: Ross Barkley insists decision to leave Everton has been justified

The Blues midfielder scored a double against Montenegro in the 5-1 win to maintain a perfect start to Euro 2020 qualification

Ross Barkley insists his decision to leave Everton for Chelsea has been justified.

The midfielder struck a double in England’s 5-1 victory over Montenegro and has featured consistently under Maurizio Sarri this season.

And Barkley is delighted with his development after taking himself out of his comfort zone to move to London.

“Yes, exactly,” Barkley answered when asked if he needed to move.

“I am away from my family and down in London by myself. I am in a totally different environment from Liverpool. I miss being with my family, it is totally different. It is how I am maturing as a person and a player. It is good.

“Since I made the move it was good to challenge myself and win trophies and to improve as a player. I’ve changed compared to when I was 18, 19 or 20.

“My diet is much ­better. My ­approach to games is much better and I am going into them with the right ­preparation and I am more ­relaxed, rather than think about things too much.”

Barkley celebrates scoring for England (Getty)

Barkley will hope to carry his international form back to his club when the Blues take on Cardiff this weekend.