The new season is fast approaching for Newcastle United.
Pre-season is now done and dusted as Eddie Howe’s side prepare for their opening game against Aston Villa in less than a week.
While its important not to draw too many conclusions from pre-season games, Newcastle did dismantle Villarreal to win the Sela Cup at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Clearly, it would be foolish to get carried away but Harvey Barnes did impress.
Replacing Allan Saint-Maximin this summer, the £38m star scored twice in a 4-0 win on his home debut.
Indeed, Howe was certainly impressed.
Eddie Howe responds to Harvey Barnes scoring twice on his home debut
Having watched the man he sold Saint-Maximin to sign bag a brace, Howe was full of praise for the former Leicester forward.
Speaking after the game (via Jordan Cronin), Howe said: “He’s made a really good first impression today. I think that’s Harvey in a nutshell – he’s quick, positive and he scores goals.
“His two finishes were very good. In transitions, he was certainly a threat.”
This is what Barnes was brought in to do
Saint-Maximin was a popular figure amongst the club’s supporters but the lack of end product was often frustrating.
While Barnes might not be quite as exciting to watch when Saint-Maximin is at his best, there is little doubt there is much more goal return from the 25-year-old.
Even during a relegation season at Leicester, the one-cap England international scored 13 Premier League goals. Quite what he could do in a better team this season is very exciting to think about.
Obviously, this does not guarantee Barnes will hit the ground running in Howe’s team when it comes to competitive action but the omens are promising.
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