Everton midfielder Ross Barkley has revealed that he would be open to playing in a deeper role more often after impressing in tonight's 3-1 win over Queens Park Rangers at Goodison Park.

With Gareth Barry absent, the 21-year-old found himself with more defensive responsibilities, but was still a menace in the final third and fired home the opener from 25 yards.

"The deflection helped it and got us under way. We got the three points which was the main thing," Barkley told reporters.

"Anywhere on the pitch, I enjoy playing, but to get the three points and to get the three goals against a QPR side that played well as well, it was great.

"Wherever I am on the pitch I try to affect the game. Today, because Gareth was out I was playing deeper and I enjoyed that."

Kevin Mirallas added to Barkley's first-half opener, while Steven Naismith struck a third in the second half to ensure that Bobby Zamora's late strike was little more than a consolation for Rangers.