Former Arsenal forward Thierry Henry was impressed by Everton summer signing Thierno Barry after his performance against Brighton.
The 22-year-old joined the Blues from Villarreal for an undisclosed fee earlier in the summer. The 6ft 5in forward scored 11 La Liga goals last season, helping secure Champions League football.
Indeed, the summer signing put in an impressive display during Sunday’s 2-0 win over Brighton. Though he didn’t find the net, Barry’s countryman Thierry Henry insists that one aspect of the youngster’s game was very impressive.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Henry said: “You mentioned Grealish, Ndiaye played well as well, but Barry – I like when you have a striker that can hold the ball for you, and invite players in, go on the counter,” he stated.
“I like what he does already there (in the build-up to the first goal). What I like is what he does after. When the ball arrives with Grealish, you know what is going to happen, but look at his movement to take away (Lewis) Dunk.
If he stays there and tries to battle with him, that ball would never reach anyone, it would have been too difficult for Barry to score, but he moves to the first post and frees that space for Ndiaye.
The run of Barry, and him holding the ball, allowed that (Ndiaye goal).”
PATIENCE REQUIRED, BUT BARRY SHOWS PROMISE
No doubt Barry will need time to adjust to the pace of the Premier League. However, there is clearly potential and his hold up play was outstanding against Brighton.
While we have only seen glimpses so far, his overall play seems to be superior to that of Beto, who struggled against Leeds last week.
Praise from a player of Henry’s calibre should not be taken lightly. A start against Mansfield Town tomorrow night would be an opportunity for the 22-year-old to bag his first goal.
