Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has sent a message to Leicester City fans after scoring on his return to the King Power Stadium.
Barnes was back at his old stomping ground for the first time since joining the Magpies for £38million in the summer of 2023 and received a very warm reception. The 27-year-old was given a round of applause when his name was read out over the PA system pre-match and his goal was even cheered by the home supporters.
Jacob Murphy scored twice in the opening 11 minutes, first converting Tino Livramento’s cross before following up Fabian Schar’s shot from the halfway line that cannoned off the crossbar. Barnes then found the net on the half-hour mark when he tapped home the loose ball from Joelinton’s saved effort.
It was a muted celebration from Barnes out of respect for his old club, not just because he came through the academy but because of their perilous position in the Premier League table. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side are on the brink of being relegated back to the Championship, sitting 15 points adrift of safety with eight matches remaining.
After cheering Barnes’ goal, sections of the Leicester fanbase started chanting ‘Barnes will tear you apart again’ before the travelling Newcastle fans joined in. And the winger has taken to social media to thank Leicester supporters.
Harvey Barnes beginning to shine at Newcastle United
Barnes has often struggled to nail down a regular starting spot since arriving from Leicester, with the majority of his 55 appearances and 11 goals coming as a substitute. His start at the King Power Stadium was the first time he started four consecutive matches for United.
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“Yeah, he’s done really well Harvey,” said Newcastle boss Eddie Howe. “I think he’s got better with games naturally, I think like every player does.
“He’s looked confident and it’s important he scored tonight because he’s a goal scorer and he needs to contribute in that way, being such an attacking player that he is. But also he played his part in the first goal which I loved.
“It was a really good decision. He’s built a good relationship up with Tino [Livramento] alongside him so I’m really pleased with that side of the pitch. I thought he’s defended well as well. That can never be underestimated. Wide players have a big responsibility to the defensive ability of the team and I think he can be really pleased.”
