Alan Pardew believes one ‘tremendous’ Newcastle United player doesn’t get as much game time as he should.
Newcastle United’s scintillating form continued on Wednesday as they destroyed Crystal Palace 5-0 at St. James’ Park.
Jacob Murphy got the ball rolling with a brilliant finish from a tight ang;e before Marc Guehi scored an own-goal against Newcastle for the second time this season.
Harvey Barnes, Fabian Schar and Alexander Isak rounded off the scoring, as the Magpies won their game in hand to steal a march in the race for a Champions League place.
It was yet another fantastic display from Barnes, who came in for high praise from former Newcastle manager Alan Pardew before the game even began.
Alan Pardew thinks Harvey Barnes needs more games
Speaking on Sky Sports punditry duty ahead of kick-off, Pardew said: “Obviously, Harvey Barnes has had one of those careers where he’s always threatened to be a top player and yet, surprisingly, he doesn’t always get picked.
“He’s had a little run this time, I think his confidence is high, he takes people on, he’s got tremendous ability.
“He scores wonder goals as well and he got one at the weekend as well when he ran all the way through the middle of Manchester United.
“He’s a quality individual and with that midfield three. Guimares, Tonali [and Joelinton], it really is one of the top midfields in the country.
“When you’re feeding wide players and when they’ve got as much possession as they’ve got, as a wide player it’s a dream. He is playing very well.”
Harvey Barnes is taking his Newcastle United chance
Barnes has now scored four goals and set up another two in his last five appearances as his fantastic form continues.
His tally for the season is now nine, the same as Murphy and Anthony Gordon, despite playing fewer minutes than either of his fellow wingers.
It’s been a difficult season for Barnes, with injuries and the form of Gordon meaning he hasn’t played as much as he would have liked.
However, Gordon’s recent suspension and injury have given him an opening. A chance in the side knowing that he will be in the side in the next game regardless of what happens.
It can be a massive weight off the shoulders of a player, freeing them to be creative and play above themselves. That’s exactly what Barnes has done and he is now earning his spot with Gordon back.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
