Ashley Barnes ended a 1,245-day wait to make his Premier League return during his late cameo for Burnley against Leeds United at the weekend.
[placeholder image
Read More
Scott Parker discusses his decision to change Burnley's system for Leeds United ...](https://www.burnleyexpress.net/sport/football/scott-parker-discusses-his-decision-to-change-burnleys-system-for-leeds-united-clash-5365457 "Scott Parker discusses his decision to change Burnley's system for Leeds United clash")
The 35-year-old made his first league appearance of the season on Saturday as an 83rd minute replacement for Lesley Ugochukwu.
For Barnes, it was his first appearance in the top flight since the 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United in May 22, 2022 – the game that confirmed Burnley’s relegation back to the Championship.
The Burnley Express has launched a new WhatsApp channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our Burnley Express WhatsApp channel.
The striker remained in East Lancashire and helped the Clarets secure an instant return to the Premier League, scoring seven times in 45 appearances as Vincent Kompany’s side stormed to the title with 101 points.
Barnes was let go at the end of that season and subsequently signed for Norwich City, where he remained until January of this year, before securing a surprise return to Turf Moor.
Ashley Barnes wins a header during Burnley's game against Leeds. Photo: Kelvin Lister-Stuttardplaceholder image
Ashley Barnes wins a header during Burnley's game against Leeds. Photo: Kelvin Lister-Stuttard
The striker penned a one-year extension during the summer after helping Burnley get over the line during the second half of last season.
The next thing for Barnes to tick off is a first Premier League goal since May 19, 2022, when he netted in a 1-1 draw against Aston Villa.
Continue Reading