Thierno Barry, who turns 24 today, is stepping up in his role as Everton's only centre-forward, according to former Blues striker Louis Saha. Saha, another French forward brought to the club by David Moyes, believes the young attacker is gaining confidence and taking on more responsibility.
Barry's Progress at Everton
Barry joined Everton for £27million from Villarreal and last season was competing with Beto for the centre-forward spot. He was one of just two squad members to feature in all 41 matches in all competitions, alongside Player of the Season James Garner. However, while Garner totalled 3714 minutes on the pitch, Barry played 2066 minutes, just shy of the equivalent of 23 full matches.
It took Barry 17 games, 737 minutes and 19 shots to break his scoring duck. This season he is on six goals, a figure he did not reach in 2025/26 until February 28, when he came off the bench to net a late winner in a 3-2 victory at Newcastle United with the right cheek of his buttocks.
Saha's Assessment
Saha, who scored 35 goals in 115 games for Everton between 2008-12, including one after just 25 seconds in the 2009 FA Cup final, spoke to the ECHO courtesy of BettingLounge. He said: "When you're a young player like Thierno Barry you need the opportunity to shine and he's missed a lot of big chances, but is also improving."
He added: "I think he's had a decent start to the season. There were moments last year when he was competing with Beto who had a similar profile and it was not very complementary for the squad. I think now, by being on his own, he is taking a bit more responsibility and gaining confidence in the right way. It's good for him and he has to keep going."
Working Hard Behind the Scenes
Saha noted Barry's dedication: "I think he's got his eyes on higher standards as well. I heard that he's working really hard behind the scenes and it's a good sign." He also praised Moyes's influence, saying: "I know that David Moyes is someone that can get the very best out of you. When you are young and play in the Premier League, you have this opportunity to surprise a lot of senior players."
Saha concluded: "Overall he has done really well. The main thing is to get that ball in the back of the net, and he's doing better on that front this season."
