Harvey Barnes is ready to step up as a senior figure at Newcastle United following a summer of upheaval that saw Eddie Howe leave and several key players depart. The 28-year-old winger, who signed a new contract last week, spoke to the media after a friendly defeat at Bristol City, which turned out to be Howe's final game in charge.
Embracing responsibility
Barnes, who scored 16 goals in all competitions last season, acknowledged the transition happening at the club. "It's an amazing club, there's so much going on. There's so many exciting things happening. As you can see this year, like I said, it's a transition for us," he said.
The England international feels a similar responsibility to last season, especially after Anthony Gordon's departure. "It's up to myself to step up again this year and score goals and other players as well," Barnes added. "It's a joint sort of collective effort to everyone chipping in."
Guiding the young players
Barnes has shown leadership qualities off the pitch, notably encouraging teenage midfielder Sean Steur in training. "You remember when you were younger, the more senior players in the squad, how they helped the young players, how they helped the team function. It's important," he stressed.
With several new signings aged 20 or under, Barnes is keen to help them integrate. "It's always good to have new faces in the door. It's exciting. You feel the buzz when someone comes in," he said.
Looking ahead
After a 12th-place Premier League finish last season, Barnes is optimistic about the new campaign. "We know we've got a lot to work on this season and a lot of little tweaks to put right. We need to really get ourselves back up there competing," he said.
