Harvey Barnes will not have been expecting to start the Carabao Cup final for Newcastle United a few weeks ago.
He still might not, but his chances of being in the Newcastle United starting XI at Wembley have drastically increased.
It started with Anthony Gordon’s suspension, with the 24-year-old’s red card ruling him out for three games – including the Carabao Cup final.
Following the red card, Geordie Boot Boys predicted that Joelinton would replace Gordon on the left wing.
That may still happen, but it was Harvey Barnes who got the chance to stake his claim on Monday night. He started at the London Stadium as Newcastle beat West Ham 1-0.
Not only did he start, he also got the crucial assist for Bruno Guimaraes’ winner. Newcastle fans were very happy with Barnes, many of which want the 27-year-old to start at Wembley.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Harvey Barnes gets ‘confidence boost’ ahead of Carabao Cup final
An incredible opportunity has fallen at Barnes’ feet, and he is doing all he can to take it.
Following Monday night’s game at West Ham, Barnes spoke to the Chronicle and reflected on his return to the starting XI amid a ‘difficult’ campaign.
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“Yeah, it’s obviously been a difficult season,” he said.
“So, it was just nice to be back out there. I enjoyed being out there from the beginning in the Premier League against West Ham. It’s been a while.
“And then, probably personally, I think it’s a nice confidence boost going into the weekend to get a good amount of minutes and be involved in the goal and have a few nice moments. So, no, it was a good day.
“I have come back from injury well. It’s obviously tough when you haven’t been playing week on week. So fitness-wise, you’re building that up every game. But I felt good out there today. I felt nice and fit and strong.”
Barnes proves his fitness before Newcastle United vs Liverpool
It has been another frustrating season for Barnes.
He has been in and out of the team, while Gordon’s form on the left wing has limited his opportunities.
To make matters worse, Barnes suffered a thigh in January that ruled him out of six games. That stunted his momentum even further.
He has not looked sharp at all upon his return, which is why the game against West Ham will have done him the world of good. It was his first Premier League start since December.
Barnes admitted he felt strong against the Hammers, and that was reflected in his performance. He was lively and involved in the Magpies’ best moments, and he could be a real weapon at Wembley if Eddie Howe opts to start him.
Toon legend Alan Shearer wants Barnes to start, but it is Howe who will make the final call.