David Moyes Champions Thierno Barry’s Rising Potential
David Moyes, the manager of Everton, has expressed confidence in the potential of Thierno Barry, a young French striker. Since his transfer from Villarreal for £27 million this summer, Barry has struggled to find his footing in the Premier League, managing only three goals so far.
Thierno Barry’s Early Challenges
Barry scored his first goal for Everton in December during a 3-0 victory against Nottingham Forest at Hill Dickinson Stadium. He followed up with another goal in the rematch against the same opponent and contributed a late goal in a 4-2 defeat to Brentford. These early performances reflect his ongoing adjustment to league play.
Transfer Background and Expectations
- Signed for £27 million from Villarreal.
- Identified by former director Kevin Thelwell.
- Transfer executed by the new recruitment team led by Angus Kinnear.
Moyes acknowledged that the club acted quickly to secure Barry, given they had limited funds. The manager emphasized that a seasoned striker would likely not be interested in playing for a team without European football. Barry was chosen after a notable season in La Liga, where he scored 14 or 15 goals.
Room for Growth
At just 21 years old, Barry is still adapting to the physical demands of the Premier League. Moyes noted the need for him to develop a more clinical touch inside the box. Comparatively, he has shown better link-up play and aerial skills than Beto, another striker on the team who has struggled to find the net.
Moyes’ Perspective on Potential
Moyes believes in Barry’s potential, citing his athleticism and past performance. He remarked, “We need him to step up, but he’s in his first year in the Premier League from overseas, so there is room for growth.” He views Barry as a promising talent who could evolve into a more complete player with time.
Key Statistics
| Player | Goals Scored | Transfer Fee | Previous Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thierno Barry | 3 | £27 million | Villarreal |
| Beto | 3 | Unknown | Unknown |
Barry’s journey in the Premier League continues to unfold, and with Moyes’ backing, he could illustrate the rising potential that has garnered attention from across Europe. As he works to enhance his skills, Everton fans will be watching closely to see how his role develops in the team.
