Anyone who supports Everton will have heard this sentiment many times over the last few years.
But, after his form over the last month and the performances for England, Ross Barkley may be about to finally fulfil his remarkable potential.
He’s still only 21 of course and it’s a sad indictment of the way that we heap pressure on our young players that we should even have been touching upon the idea of ‘false dawns’ with Barkley.
But, at his best, he is already a raging bull but one who marries his power with elegance and skill on the ball.
Whether he plays in midfield or at number 10 (and we generally prefer him in the latter position) he can make Manchester United pay in the first game after the international break.
But United will be desperate to avoid another defeat after the mauling at Arsenal and this should make for a fascinating game.
Pienaar, Hibbert and Baines remain sidelined but there is a chance that midfielders Cleverley and Besic could figure and many are hopeful that John Stones will start after a recent injury.
As an aside, we saw Gerard Deulofeu play for the Spain Under 21s in the international break and he was really dangerous – a final ball to go with the overall threat.
So here is our strongest XI for the crunch game of the weekend.
Everton fans: let’s have your elevens
