Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe raved about Harvey Barnes after the super sub inspired the side to a comeback victory over West Ham on Saturday.
The England winger had the last say in a topsy-turvy seven-goal thriller at St James’ Park, coming off the bench to score two late goals to claim all three points for the Magpies.
“He is an incredible player,” Howe told BBC Match of the Day after the final whistle.
“We have missed him this season and he would have given us quality wherever he played. He is a goalscorer and they are so valuable and his two finishes today were of the highest quality.
“Of course, the last one was memorable and will always be remembered and what a finish it was. That’s the quality he has.”
Barnes has struggled with injuries this season, making just one start since returning from a four-month injury layoff. But the £38 million signing is ready to make up for lost time.
“Sitting on the sidelines, in the stands, it’s the worst feeling so it makes you want to work even harder to get to stages like today and enjoy moments like today,” the 26-year-old said.
“You are just eager to get out there and help the team get back in the game. You want to try and make an impact, whether that is goals or setting others up. That’s what the gaffer expects from us coming on the pitch so luckily today I did them things.”
Newcastle are now just one point behind West Ham, who occupy the last of the European qualification spots in the Premier League, but the Tyneside outfit do have a game in hand.
Read – Barnes puts ‘tough season’ behind him to complete Newcastle comeback
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