Everton: 10 Reasons Lukaku And Barkley Are Best Signings Of 2014

9. Both Seem Impervious To Pressure

This was again demonstrated at the World Cup this summer: while Lukaku didn't set the tournament alight, he didn't seem the slightest bit uncomfortable playing up front on his own for his country. This imperviousness to pressure was also emphasised in his first season at Everton. His first season as first-choice striker saw him score a stunning return of 15 Premier League goals meaning he made the top ten in terms of goals scored, joining an elite list featuring the likes of Luis Suarez and Wayne Rooney. Ross Barkley seems to emulate the great Paul Gascoigne as a player and a character. Not in the 'Jack the lad,' mischievous and trouble-causing sense, but the fact that he isn't over-awed by respect for the opposition, which he again demonstrated at the World Cup, when he came on against Italy for the last half an hour and seemed to be the most lively player in a Three Lions shirt even as they seemed down and defeated. Both players can handle the rough and tumble of the Premier League, as proved last season, and they are also able to stand amongst the best players in the world without the slightest bit of worry.