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Harvey Barnes is a vital player for Newcastle, says Howe

Pa
Monday, Jan 13, 2025

LONDON: Eddie Howe has told Harvey Barnes to be ready for a run in his Newcastle team as they continue to fight on three fronts.

The Magpies have climbed into fifth place in the Premier League table and will take a 2-0 lead into next month’s Carabao Cup semi-final, second-leg clash with Arsenal at St James’ Park after putting together a blistering run of seven successive victories since the middle of last month.

Asked if there was more to come from the former Leicester wide-man, head coach Howe said: “Yes. Harvey could easily get a run in the team, and I do believe he’ll be a consistent goalscorer for us or goal creator for us because that’s always been his way.

“When he’s played this season, especially as a substitute, he’s been fantastic for us. He’s really scored some vital goals and made some big contributions to us winning or drawing games.

“I really respect him as a player and as a person. He’s been great around the group. He’s a vital player for us.”

Barnes’ problem has been not so much his own form, but rather that of Anthony Gordon, who has made the left-sided berth in Howe’s potent front three alongside Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy his own.

The England international’s return of goals and assists – he scored his sixth of the season in Tuesday night’s victory at the Emirates Stadium – has made him a near-automatic choice for Howe.