Date: Tue 04 Jul 2023

By Steve Whitney

Leiston's Barnes Sold to York

Pitching In Southern League Premier Division Central club Leiston have lost attacking wide player Finlay Barnes to Vanarama National League side York City.

Leiston’s joint first team boss Darren Eadie has spoken of his club’s pride in the progression of Barnes.

The 22-year-old has signed for the Minstermen after having joined Leiston from Thurlow Nunn League side Norwich United in June 2020.

He made 116 appearances for Leiston, scoring 36 goals - one goal every three games.

An undisclosed fee has been agreed between the two clubs.

And while obviously disappointed at losing such a talent, Eadie knows the move to York is a huge opportunity for the former Norwich City youngster, an opportunity that Leiston feel happy they have played a part in.

Eadie told his club’s website: “I’ve known Finlay for a long time and always been a great admirer of his. He did well at Norwich United at Step 5, but I always knew he could go higher.

“When we saw him and before we signed him, I said to Chris Wigger, we can develop him and let’s see where it goes. So, we pat him on the back and say well done to him on his move.

“Us as managers and Leiston as a football club should take massive pride from Finlay’s move. As much as we want to succeed as a team, for me this is as big a win as winning a trophy.

“It’s a pat on the back for us and the football club that players are getting to the levels they are getting to.

“So, yes, we would love to have kept him, but we wish Fin all the best, he’s a natural talent. And I hope he fulfils all the dreams he has”.

Leiston Web Site

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