Harvey raring to show his worth after injury agony

HARVEY BARNES feared his season was over after suffering a foot injury but has vowed to fire Newcastle into European contention again.

- Simon Bird

The winger scored a crucial equaliser for Newcastle against Luton on Saturday in his first appearance since pulling up lame against Sheffield United in September.

Barnes opted not to have an operation after conflicting advice from specialists and says it was the "right decision" after returning to action.

With Anthony Gordon, below, out for a spell after twisting his ankle and leaving St James' Park on crutches, summer signing Barnes is set for a big role in the coming weeks.

He said: "It's been a tough period for me, the toughest I've had in football. I'm delighted to be back.