Harvey Barnes’ comeback assessed following impressive impact in starting XI

Assessing former West Brom loanee Harvey Barnes since his return. How is he fitting into the squad at Leicester City and what future impact will the starlet have?

Recalling Harvey Barnes was something that seemed like everyone with an opinion agreed on. Subsequently Leicester City obliged the Blue Army’s sentiment on the matter; he returned from West Bromwich Albion thereafter.

Forget player power, supporter power is another strong area less talked about: in this instance, Claude Puel recalls the player due to apparent pressure, and of course quality. Contradicting the club’s, or his, previous standing on the matter.

Soon after a bad run of results – despite promising play from the academy graduate at the heart of this article – owner Top Srivaddhanaprabha relieved the Frenchman of duty. Top – also known as Aiyawatt – then cited a ‘poisonous atmosphere’ specifically at home games behind his judgement. Power to the fans!

What Puel said of the youngster was intriguing, as the ex-City chief began wanting the player to remain on his successful West Brom loan. Although, as time went by and more Barnes assists, goals and commendations emerged. Puel went full u-turn knowing a recall was undeniable due to his loaned forward’s form.

Adding to the compulsory nature of his comeback is the fact Leicester struggled at the time of New Year to convert and sometimes create enough sufficient goalscoring chances.

One man who witnessed and benefitted from all of Barnes’ excellent form, goals and key passing was Darren Moore. He’s also lost his job now but is credited with helping develop the youngster too at WBA.

At the time Barnes left the Baggies, Moore proclaimed:

"“I’m sure he [Barnes] will be forever indebted to the football club [West Brom]” Via Leicester Mercury"

Enter the former West Brom loanee in Leicester City’s first team as a starter, following 15 goal involvements in the English second divison, in just half a campaign.