Eddie Howe confirms ‘outstanding’ Newcastle player is really pushing for a start now

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Newcastle United may not have signed the right winger they wanted to this summer but manager Eddie Howe does have options in attack.

Indeed, while it’s not exactly ideal to not have strengthened a position Newcastle reportedly wished to, Howe has certainly made things work.

Anthony Gordon has been moved there at times even despite making it known he believes he’s much better on the left, while Joelinton operated there during the win over Nottingham Forest before the international break.

While the likes of Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron do offer natural options out on the right, neither appear to totally convince Howe considering their lack of game time.

Sadly for the Newcastle United manager, most of his compelling options in attack are seemingly more natural on the left.

One of those is Harvey Barnes. The winger, hailed as “outstanding” by Howe after the win over Forest, is level on four goals with Alexander Isak as the club’s top scorer so far this season.

That tally is all the more impressive when you take into account the former Leicester star has started only five Premier League games all season.

Still, Howe believes the player is simply too good to be referred to as a “super sub” and confirmed Barnes is pushing to start more regularly.

• READ MORE: Who is Harvey Barnes? Profile, Girlfriend, Dad, Salary, Socials

Eddie Howe drops fresh selection hint involving four-goal Newcastle star

Asked about Barnes having that particular tag, Howe said on Friday (via Newcastle World): “I certainly don’t see him as a super sub, although he has done really well from the bench for us and has contributed goals and assists.

“He was really the pivotal player in our comeback against West Ham last year and if he doesn’t come on the pitch with the right attitude we don’t win that game.

“Certainly, he’s more than that and he’s capable of more than that. I don’t think Harvey would want that tag. He’s an outstanding player, who’s got a really good goalscoring record and got a goalscoring ability that he’s always had in his career.

“So I’d love to find a way to work him into the team on a consistent basis, that will be down to Harvey if he continues to do well. He’s certainly knocking on the door to play regularly.”

Harvey Barnes can play a huge role for Newcastle

Howe has previously praised the player as “unique”, so clearly rates him rather highly.

• READ MORE: All of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United signings, ranked

The forward may have to settle for a bit part role right now but there is little reason why he can’t force his way into the first-team more regularly. Joelinton, of course, could drop into midfield at some point again – perhaps opening up a spot.

Newcastle will need as many players as possible if they are to make deep runs in both cup competitions while pushing for a spot in the Premier League’s top five.