It’s felt like an eternity since Gareth Barry was last seen playing first-team football, but on Saturday the veteran midfielder returned to the pitch for a dramatic occasion.
GB’s pic.twitter.com/hmMvq7jguJ
— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) November 24, 2019
The 38-year-old midfielder was a second half substitute for the Albion in what was to be a tense 2-1 win for the hosts as Charlie Austin secured the three points for Slaven Bilic’s side late on with a penalty to ensure West Brom remain top of the pack in the Championship table.
It was a dramatic night for supporters, but the return of Barry to the pitch was a welcome sight for plenty of fans at the stadium as well as on social media, with the former Everton midfielder playing his first match for West Brom this season as well as for the first time since March after suffering a long-term injury.
Here’s what some West Brom supporters had to say about Barry’s return to the pitch on Twitter…
Another assured performance when he come on. Classic barry took control of the match.
— DOOD (@DoodWBA) November 24, 2019
Class player great signing
— SamLad WBA (@SamuelRoberts01) November 24, 2019
GB had a very good impact on the game yday. He and Chris helped us wrestle back control of Midfield and this enabled us to win the game
— Carl 1878 (@baggyboy1878) November 24, 2019
Class player
— Michael Farmer (@baggieboyfarmer) November 24, 2019
West Brom fans were buzzing to see Barry back on the pitch after a lengthy spell on the recovery table…
Class player…
Great signing, can only add to the squad,
And in a Bilic type team will only thrive..
Overused last season, hence the injury…
Much better balanced squad this season..
Like Tom Brady, will play in his 40’s..— Andy Caulton (@AndyfromNewHamp) November 24, 2019
Him & Brunt changed the game when they came on
— James (@JamesWilkoWBA) November 24, 2019
Was brill to see him back. Played well
— Wunky Wino-Sauce (@mrdeykin) November 24, 2019
Glad to see you back
— Daniel Ashe (@DanielAshe15) November 24, 2019
Barry could be in contention to start Wednesday night’s Championship fixture against Bristol City.