Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has insisted that he has become a better player following his loan spell with Sheffield Wednesday.

David Moyes recalled the 18-year-old earlier this week and Barkley believes that his time with the Owls has given him valuable experience.

"I enjoyed it," Barkley told the club's official website. "I was there for two months and it was valuable experience, which I needed because playing in the Under-21s, it's good, but you need to be playing competitive football for points.

"It helped. By going away I feel like I've turned into a better player. I've learned quite a lot in a short space of time.

"The players talk more because they're fighting for points and we were low in the league and trying to get up. Also with the Under-21s, it's not really as physical as it is in the Championship, and it's much better playing in front of crowds too."

Barkley scored four goals in 13 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday.