Expert urges Everton fans to be patient with Thierno Barry after new ‘evidence’
Thierno Barry has struggled to get to grips with life at Everton so far.
David Moyes was desperate for attacking reinforcements as he prepared for the new Premier League season.
The Friedkin Group gave the Scotsman his wish, with the former Villarreal frontman and Jack Grealish arriving at Finch Farm ahead of the campaign.
While the ex-Man City star has not had a pre-season with the Blues, Barry has, and he did not make much of an impression.
Goodison News presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
Everton concerns over Barry are not justified
Given that Barry has never played in the Premier League, it is no surprise that it is taking time for the Frenchman to settle in.
- Featured four times in pre-season
- Came off the bench against Bournemouth, West Ham and Manchester United on the US tour
- Started against AS Roma at the Hill Dickinson Stadium
Darke believes that it is unfair to judge him on pre-season performances and that supporters should give him time before deciding on his ability.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, he said: “I think you have got to give any new signing time, and I don’t think the time to rush to any judgement is after a couple of pre-season friendlies when the players are not up to sharpness.
“The friendlies are there to give the players sharpness and for them to build up rhythm, so let’s see what happens.
“Let’s have a look at 10 games in, then we can start to draw conclusions, but I don’t think you can draw conclusions before the guy has played a proper match for the club.
“The evidence is there, he got 11 goals for Villarreal in La Liga last season, which is a tidy enough return, without being spectacular.”
Barry can make instant impact at Everton vs Leeds
Supporters’ opinions on Barry will likely change rapidly if he can make an impact in the season opener against Leeds United on Monday.
Moyes’ side may find it difficult to break the Elland Road outfit open, and while Beto is expected to start, Barry may be given his chance to shine as the clash progresses.
If he can come off the bench and make an impact and potentially outshine new Whites star Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who played for the Toffees for nine years, it would be a very satisfying start to his Blues career.
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