Eddie Howe shares the real reason Harvey Barnes was subbed at half time during Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win over Wimbledon.
Newcastle United fans were shocked to see Harvey Barnes taken off at half time during the Magpies’ Carabao Cup win over Wimbledon.
The Magpies beat Wimbledon 1-0 to advance to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, but it was another uninspiring performance from Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle United struggled to break down Wimbledon’s defence, and were limited to speculative shots from distance in the opening 45 minutes. One of them came from Harvey Barnes, who started for the Magpies for the third game in a row.
However, the 26-year-old only lasted 45 minutes. He was replaced ahead of the second half, with Bruno Guimaraes coming on and playing very well. That change resulted in Joelinton moving from centre-midfield to left wing.
It was an interesting substitution, as there had been no suggestion that Barnes was injured. Alternatively, he was not playing so poorly that he needed to be replaced.
READ MORE: Who is Harvey Barnes? Profile, Girlfriend, Dad, Salary, Socials
Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United (11) runs with the ball during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Newcastle United and AFC Wimbledon at Th…
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
The reason why Harvey Barnes was substituted during Newcastle 1 Wimbledon 0
Now Eddie Howe has addressed the decision to take Barnes off, explaining to the Chronicle why the £39million man was withdrawn after the first half.
“That was planned before the game,” he said.
“Without the injury to Martin we might have done a few more at half-time. The plan was to rotate and keep everybody fresh for Saturday.
“There were a couple of players played longer than I wanted to.”
No Harvey Barnes concern ahead of Everton vs Newcastle
The plan all along was for Barnes to play just 45 minutes. That is excellent news, as it would be a major blow to lose him to injury. Barnes is playing the best football of his Newcastle career, boasting three goals already this season.
And with Alexander Isak out with a toe injury, it is vital that Barnes remains fit. He is on course to start on the left wing once again on Saturday, as Newcastle prepare to travel to Everton.
With Isak a major doubt, it looks like Anthony Gordon will have to play as a striker once again. That means that the left wing will be free for Barnes to occupy, and he will be eager to have a positive impact at Goodison Park.
Eddie Howe used Newcastle’s cup tie to build up fitness
The Barnes substitution was pre-planned, while Howe always had visions of bringing on Bruno and Anthony Gordon, despite them being two of Newcastle’s biggest hitters and two players who the Magpies desperately must not lose to injury.
