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Ahead of Ronald Koeman's first season in charge, the Everton faithful are still awaiting the appearance of Gareth Barry in pre-season.

It was one of the questions on everyone's lips during Tuesday Night's win at MK Dons - where was Barry?

To clear up his absence so far, he is suffering from a minor injury.

However, with Everton being consistently linked with numerous central midfielders including the rumoured activation of Idrissa Gueye's release clause at Aston Villa , many are questioning Barry's future.

While he was an integral part of the Roberto Martinez era, it remains uncertain whether he will be under Koeman.

With the likes of James McCarthy, Mo Besic, Darron Gibson and the possible signing of Gueye, it looks more competitive than ever to get into the Goodison midfield.

The unknown quantity of Koeman's plans for his Everton side has meant that there is a variety number of roles which Barry may potentially fill.

There is no reason why Barry won't come back into that defensive midfield position as first choice option.

At times last season, the former England international was prominent in the meagre success the blues did have.

Whilst this ultimately led to him winning last season's player of the season award, it became apparent during some games that the ex Aston Villa man is not the player he once was. At the age of 35, the legs are starting to slow and despite his on-pitch influence, it may be difficult for him to perform as well in another long competitive season.

This leads on to another potential role.

His experience and his football knowledge is vast. Barry has 53 England caps under his belt, along with a Premier League winners medal and Champions league experience. One player who could benefit from this is Tom Davies.

The young midfielder has shown in his appearances so far that he could have what it takes to become a long term successor to Barry. And Koeman might feel Davies will be able to develop further whilst Barry remains part of the club.

Will he shine in 3-5-2?

At Southampton, Koeman often played the 3-5-2 formation against bigger teams. The Dutchman may feel Barry can play a deeper role within this set-up without having to do the heavy leg work he would do in a more attacking formation.

It could mean Barry sees his opportunity to play against the weaker sides limited which would allow for him to be rested ahead of more integral games next season.

There is however the possibility of a reverse to this with Koeman feeling Barry may not have what it takes stamina-wise to play in the more competitive fixtures. This could potentially see him play in the cup competitions, whilst other midfielders higher up the pecking order are rested.

Although it remains unclear how Barry might be utilised especially with him having no game time under Koeman as of yet.

What remains certain is Barry's proven qualities.

Despite struggling in his second season with the Blues because of a heavier game schedule due to Europa League action, last season and the 13/14 campaign saw Barry impose a strong influence.

Under the new regime, Koeman may feel Barry is running out of steam in his 18 year senior career. Or he may view him as a specialist who can play a vital role, even if it is essentially a bit-part one.