Ross Barkley has earned plaudits from the official Aston Villa Twitter account for his display against former club Everton on Saturday, but plenty of fans were less than impressed.

Villa won 2-1 on Merseyside to end a three-game winless streak and regain their place in the top half.

The impressive numbers behind Barkley's Goodison showing

Chelsea loanee Barkley was awarded a rating of 7.8 by SofaScore for his performance.

He created two chances, one of which was a big chance, and won six of his nine ground duels. The 27-year-old also struck the post with an effort from outside the area.

And according to Villa's Twitter account, Barkley recorded the most touches (84), most completed passes (55) and most dribbles (four) out of anyone on the pitch.

He was even included in the WhoScored team of the week in central midfield alongside Manchester City's Rodri.

Barkley had been struggling for form, with Birmingham Mail journalist Ashley Preece noting that his 'confidence (is) on the floor' amid 'fierce and harsh criticism' from sections of the Villa fanbase.

And some supporters seem to not be buying the upturn in form considering his poor displays through most of the season - Whoscored rank him as the side's tenth-best performer.

Villa fans tell Ross it's 'too little, too late'

"Not so good at marking from corners though. Feel the improved performance was down to the opponents more than anything else"

Credit: @SilverFoxZone

"Too little too late. He needed to step up months ago. Flattered to deceive. We need someone who can handle the pressure when Jack is out"

Credit: @pkaza84

"Fool me once…"

Credit: @M10Packed

"Badly wanted him to prove me wrong at the start of the season but it's just not happened.... 3 good games in a season is no more than championship level"

Credit: @Liam_Kinsella95

"Shut up"

Credit: @branparker4

"Gives ball away far too many times and only person he can tackle is himself."

Credit: @knightyc1980

In other news, Dean Smith's side are said to be plotting a move for this defender.