Ross Barkley admits learning 'huge lesson' after taxi incident | OneFootball

After returning with a goal from an 11-week spell on the sidelines, Chelsea’s Ross Barkley has revealed that it was a time of reflection for him.

The midfielder was sidelined for almost three months with a persistent foot problem but made a scoring comeback on Sunday against Nottingham Forest.

During his time out, the England international had time to learn from mistakes that he has made off the field this season.

Namely, it related to Barkley being photographed at an ATM accompanied by police following a row with a taxi driver over spilled chips which left the club furious.

“That taught me a big lesson. You have to be aware of your surroundings when you let your hair down,” said Barkley, quoted by the Guardian.

“You have got to be aware of what’s around you. It is more about being with the right company and in private.

“When you play in the Premier League, you are high-profile so it’s about keeping low-key and switched on. I have made that mistake and it won’t happen again.

“But I am sure it will happen to young players in the future. We all make mistakes but it is about being aware.

“Back in the day players wouldn’t have to think about things like that but you can’t forget people want to make you look bad.

“I am very professional but that 10 seconds doesn’t make you look professional. That’s just the way football is now with phones. You have to adapt to the way things are.”

As a result of his injury issues this season, Barkley has played in just six league games.