Eddie Howe has explained why he felt it was necessary to give Harvey Barnes his Newcastle debut to settle in despite the winger signing less than 24 hours before kick-off.
The winger joined the club yesterday afternoon in a £38m deal from Leicester and was given his debut that same day as he made a 20-minute cameo appearance against Aston Villa.
After the game, Howe explained that this was a ‘late decision’ after such a long flight, but ‘thought it was best’ to get him in early so he can start his journey as a Newcastle player.
Howe enjoyed what he saw of the 25-year-old last night and claimed that he showed ‘real promise’ as he even had a chance to win the game late on with a curling effort.
Although Barnes himself admitted he was ‘a bit rusty’, he appreciated the manager’s decision and is ‘looking forward’ to the other games to help settle into the squad.
Here’s what Howe said on his debut:
“We made a late decision to involve him tonight. We weren’t sure as he only arrived here yesterday – it was a long flight for him. But ultimately, we thought it was best to get his debut in early. He hasn’t trained with the players yet but a debut of real promise, I thought.”
Here’s what Barnes said on his debut:
“It was good. I haven’t trained with the team or done many sessions recently so it was good to get the legs going tonight. I felt a little bit rusty but over the next couple of days I’m sure I’ll get some sharpness back and look forward to the rest of the game.
“We’ve got some good games coming up, good tests to get us ready for the season. It’s the perfect way to bed in as well. Being away for a week with all the lads, there is no better way to get to know them all and make yourself comfortable. It’s going to be a good week.”
