‘Easy decision’: Harvey Barnes explains what his teammates have already told him about Newcastle

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New Newcastle signing Harvey Barnes has quickly linked up with the squad, and has now revealed why he chose to join Eddie Howe’s side.

Barnes featured in Newcastle’s pre-season draw with Aston Villa following confirmation of his transfer from Leicester two days ago, and is keen to settle quickly after trading a relegation team for a Champions League side.

Speaking to The Athletic, he explained why the Newcastle project and playing style appealed to him.

“It was tough. They start games so well. You can be three down pretty quickly. They are an intense, physical side. That will suit me. I’ve spoken to some of the lads and they say you have to work hard, but the rewards are there when you do,” he said of his new team.

“When I heard of the interest and knew it was serious, I knew it was a club I definitely wanted to be a part of. All those wonderful things, watching on last year, and the ambition for this year, it suits me really well. The style of play will suit me as well. It was an easy decision.”

What will Barnes bring to Newcastle?

The England international has replaced Allan Saint-Maximin as a winger for Eddie Howe, with the Frenchman completing a move to Saudi Arabia, and the 25-year-old will add additional goal threat to Newcastle’s attack.

Barnes scored 13 league goals in a struggling Leicester side last season and was an important option because of his pace and direct dribbling.

Although right-footed, Barnes typically operates on the left wing, and it will be interesting to see who Howe prefers out of Barnes and January arrival Anthony Gordon, and whether he elects to play both together.

Barnes has experience in Europe with Leicester, but if he can make the step up to Champions League football, then he could become a key player for the Magpies as they return to Europe’s elite competition.