'The worst' - Newcastle United star reacts after being ruled out for five months

Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has reflected on his "toughest period in football" following a return after five months out.

The £38million summer signing from Leicester City marked his return against Luton Town by scoring the equaliser in a thrilling 4-4 draw at St James' Park. United were 4-2 down when Barnes was introduced from bench but goals from Kieran Trippier and then Barnes rescued a point.

"I've been out for that long I was just excited to get onto the pitch and help the team out, and I did that today," said Barnes. "It wasn't three points but for me I'm just buzzing to be back out there.

"It's been so long. It's been my toughest period in football. Coming to a new club and getting hit with injury, it's the worse thing. I've been working. Today it's great to get the goal but just disappointed it wasn't to get three points.

"The good thing is I felt like I've been at a level for the last few weeks that when I was back involved I could make an impact. Thankfully I did that today. The rest of the season is just about helping as much as I can."

Barnes was making just his second start for Newcastle when he withdrew with a toe injury in the early stages of the 8-0 win at Sheffield United in September.

The 26-year-old was initially due to return around the festive period but suffered a setback. It was feared he might have to undergo surgery but that scenario has been avoided after progressing well over the last few weeks.

He's now set his sights on helping United finish high up the Premier League table as possible. As it stands, Eddie Howe's men sit ninth, 13 points away from the top four.

"It's been such a frustrating period for me," Barnes added. "When you're a new signing you just want to hit the ground running and when you get hit with injury it's the worst. It's about getting back, enjoying it and helping out as much as I can to finish as high as we can in the league."