Eddie Howe explains ‘late’ Harvey Barnes decision after £38m Newcastle United move

Eddie Howe has explained his “late” decision to hand Harvey Barnes his Newcastle United debut against Aston Villa during the early hours of Monday morning.

The Magpies confirmed the 25-year-old’s £38million arrival from Leicester City in the hours leading up to their Premier League Summer Series opener against Aston Villa in Philadelphia.

Barnes had only been in the United States less than 24 hours and hadn’t yet trained with his new teammates. Howe made the late call to include the winger in his matchday squad, where he was introduced as a substitute for the remaining 20 minutes.

“We made a late decision to involve him tonight,” said the United head coach. “We weren’t sure as he only arrived here yesterday - it was a long flight for him. But ultimately, we thought it was best to get his debut in early. He hasn’t trained with the players yet but a debut of real promise, I thought.”

Newcastle were 2-0 down inside the opening 10 minutes after goals from Ollie Watkins and Emi Buendia. However, Elliot Anderson and Alexander Isak ensured the two teams went into half-time on level terms.

Buendia found the net again to make it 3-2 after the break but Howe’s side hit back again through Callum Wilson. Barnes also found a winner but his curling right-footed shot was saved by Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen.

“It was good,” Barnes said. “I haven’t trained with the team or done many sessions recently so it was good to get the legs going tonight. I felt a little bit rusty but over the next couple of days I’m sure I’ll get some sharpness back and look forward to the rest of the game.”

United face Chelsea in Atlanta on Thursday (kick-off 1:15am) before rounding off the US visit against Brighton and Hove Albion in New Jersey on Saturday (kick-off 12:30am).

“We’ve got some good games coming up, good tests to get us ready for the season,” Barnes added. “It’s the perfect way to bed in as well. Being away for a week with all the lads, there is no better way to get to know them all and make yourself comfortable. It’s going to be a good week.”