Interviews

Barrington finding his feet with Albion

Young midfielder scored his first goal for the club in last PL2 outing.

By Matt Bishop • 30 October 2022

By Paul Hazlewood
Luca Barrington joined Albion from Manchester City in the summer.

Luca Barrington has settled into his new surroundings and is now ready to kick on ahead of Albion’s Premier League 2 fixture against Chelsea today, kick-off 4pm.

The 17-year-old arrived at the club from Manchester City in August and scored his first goal for the club in last weekend’s 3-2 win against West Ham in PL2.

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PL2 Highlights: Albion 3 West Ham 2

He also starred against Feyenoord in the Premier League International Cup on Tuesday as Shannon Ruth’s team made a winning start to the European competition, and Barrington is enjoying his run in the team.

The attacking midfielder said, “I had to be patient when I arrived. It took some time to adjust to my new surroundings, but I’ve worked my way into the team and feel like I’m doing well.

“I put a lot of pressure on myself so scoring was a brilliant feeling. I’m just trying my best to impact the side and perform as positively as possible to help my teammates.

“We all work together as one here. We’re a really close group and I’m happy to be a part of it. When I arrived, everyone was so welcoming and made me feel right at home and I’m really enjoying being here.”

Head coach Ruth added, “I think we all forget sometimes that these players are young lads, moving away from their families and getting used to completely new environments.

By Bennett Dean
The under-21s are unbeaten in their last three Premier League 2 outings.

“We have to be patient and look after them. We wanted to help Luca in any way we can because he’s a talented boy and he’s got so much to offer us with the ball at his feet. He’s got a real appetite to play, to get better and one day play in the Premier League.

“We are now reaping the rewards for our patience and support. He’s in a place where he’s happy and flourishing. He did well off the bench against Spurs and Manchester United, and then was superb against West Ham and Feyenoord.”

Barrington’s recent form has coincided with Albion’s longest unbeaten run of the season so far, and he hopes he can keep contributing to help build momentum.

“At the start of the season, we deserved more points for how we were playing, but we’re now getting the results we deserve and are being rewarding for playing well.

“At the time, I was coming on as a sub most weeks and getting used to my teammates and how we play as a club. I’ve eased my way in now and have a good feel for the team.

“Hopefully I can keep helping the side in any way possible. It will be a difficult game on Sunday but it will be great if we could continue our good form against Chelsea.”