The Saints academy forward is eager to break into the first team and some Southampton fans have urged the goal-shy club to give him a chance.
Southampton striker Marcus Barnes has spoken out about his desire to impress new manager Ralph Hasenhuttl and win a place in the first team.
The 22-year-old has been prolific at Under-23 level this season, with six goals in 11 Premier League 2 matches, plus one in the Checkatrade Trophy for an overall tally of a goal every other game (Transfermarkt).
To date, Barnes has never made an appearance for Southampton’s senior team, however, despite being on the Saints’ books since 2014, when he transferred to their academy from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Indeed, the forward – who has suffered from injury problems in the past – has only ever made nine appearances for a senior side, turning out for Yeovil Town during a half-season loan in 2017/18.
In this week’s “In the Spotlight” feature on Southampton’s YouTube channel, Barnes discussed his injury troubles and claimed that, thankfully – and touch wood – the current campaign is going smoothly in that respect so far.
When asked about breaking into the first team, he replied: “That’s what you’re here for isn’t it? I want to try and impress the manager, impress the players… ultimately that’s what’s going to improve you and get you to where you need be, to show you should be there, letting them know.”
With Saints currently boasting a meagre 13 goals from their 16 Premier League games so far – the joint second-worst tally in the division – Barnes’ comments have persuaded some of their fans to urge for the youngster to be given a chance in the senior squad:
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