Newcastle fans all rip into 'the worst ever' player after display vs Liverpool

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Chris Smith

Tue 26 August 2025 8:30, UK

Harvey Barnes has come under fire for his performance in Newcastle United’s 3-2 defeat to Liverpool on Monday night.

James’ Park in this Alexander Isak grudge match, with Liverpool throwing away a 2-0 lead in the second half despite a man advantage, only for 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha to deliver a 110th-minute winner.

However, Barnes looked largely anonymous during the 76 minutes he was on the pitch, with his performance all the more disappointing given he was up against a makeshift right-back in Dominik Szoboszlai.

And while Newcastle fans had plenty to be proud of on Monday, they haven’t let this outing from Barnes slide.

The 27-year-old winger — Newcastle’s fifth-most-expensive transfer ever — had just 16 touches of the ball during his time on the pitch.

With those touches, he attempted only one dribble — failing to complete it — and managed just one accurate cross (FotMob).

Only one of his touches was in the opposition box, while Barnes only created one chance and didn’t attempt a single shot as he was shut down by Szoboszlai.

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Barnes was replaced by William Osula in the 76th minute, and the Danish striker certainly vindicated Eddie Howe’s choice as he scored an equalising goal in the 88th minute.

Newcastle fans took to social media to express their displeasure at Barnes’ performance, with the former Leicester man a low point on what was a bittersweet night for the Magpies.

Barnes is in luck, considering Anthony Gordon was sent off on Monday, while Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Fabian Schar were all withdrawn through injury.

The Magpies take on Leeds United on Monday evening, and it’s anyone’s guess what the status of Isak will be by then, so there’s every chance Howe will head to Elland Road desperately short of forwards.

With that in mind, Barnes’ place in the starting XI will be assured there, but can the same be said once Gordon returns from suspension — or when Newcastle either keep Isak or sign a striker?

The one-time England international has now gone seven Premier League games without a direct goal involvement and simply must raise his performance levels soon if he’s to remain a consistent starter for Howe.

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