Puel: Barnes Can Help Us This Season

First Team
11 Jan 2019
1 Minute
Claude Puel has discussed Harvey Barnes' ability after the Leicester City Academy graduate returned to the Club on Friday following a loan spell at West Bromwich Albion.

- Academy graduate Harvey Barnes was recalled by Leicester City on Friday
- The attacking midfielder has spent the first half of the season on loan at West Bromwich Albion
- Manager Claude Puel says Barnes' qualities can be useful for the Foxes this season
- Barnes is fit and available for Saturday's clash with Southampton (3pm GMT kick-off)

The 21-year-old midfielder, who scored nine goals in 26 appearances for the Baggies, trained with his team-mates at Belvoir Drive as part of City’s preparations to face Southampton on Saturday.

Elaborating on the Club's decision to recall Barnes, Puel explained: “The principle reason is because I think he can help us. I watched his games and I am happy about his progress.

“He played very well. I would like to thank West Bromwich Albion and their manager [Darren Moore] because he gave him the opportunities to play.

He’s a clinical player, he can push [forward] and make a good penetration. He can keep a good composure, he’s calm with his finishing, and I am impressed by his qualities.

Claude Puel

“He gave his best for West Bromwich Albion and I know it’s difficult for them to lose this player but I think it’s a good moment to come back home to help his team-mates.

“He’s a clinical player, he can push [forward] and make a good penetration. He can keep a good composure, he’s calm with his finishing, and I am impressed by his qualities.”

Puel confirmed that Barnes is match fit and available for selection, subject to Premier League approval, ahead of the Saints’ visit to King Power Stadium on Saturday (3pm GMT kick-off).

“He trained with us today,” he added. “He didn’t need adaptation time because he knows his team-mates and he will be available for the game tomorrow.

“Perhaps, he will be in the squad and we will see tomorrow. He is fit and available, if we want, for the game tomorrow.”